Apple Announces New R&D Center in Shenzhen, China to Attract Software Developers

[MacRumors]

Apple announced tonight that it would open a new research and development center in Shenzhen, China, continuing attempts to boost its presence in the country, reports Reuters. The move comes a couple weeks after Apple opened a Beijing R&D center, which was announced in August.

Shenzhen's High-Tech Industrial Park, Photo by Brucke Osteuropa​

Cook announced the new Shenzhen plan during a meeting with officials from the city. The Apple CEO is reportedly attending a "nation-wide innovation" event.

"We are excited to be opening a new Research and Development center here next year so our engineering team can work even more closely and collaboratively with our manufacturing partners," Cupertino-based Apple spokesman Josh Rosenstock said in emailed comments.

Apple is interested in attracting talented software developers in Shenzhen to its platform. The Cupertino company told Reuters that the new Shenzhen and Beijing centers are aimed at "strengthening relationships" with local partners and universities across the country.

The new centers are also seen as the company's response to concern about its future in China, where consumers are opting for low-cost alternatives to the iPhone. Additionally, Apple has experienced a number of road blocks in its China plans, including the closure of the iTunes and iBooks stores.

Apple has also set up R&D centers in Japan, Israel and the U.K, and is reportedly planning similar centers in Canada, India, Vietnam and more.

Article Link: Apple Announces New R&D Center in Shenzhen, China to Attract Software Developers

 

[volcomvenom]

When I saw the words apple announces, I thought that the new MacBook pros were announced. Who gives a hoot about an rnd center?

 

[Avieshek]

How about a R&D centre for batteries only?

 

[MH01]

Maybe once it's build they will get a team to work on the MacBook replacements.

 

[ZZ Bottom]

"Designed by Apple in China, Assembled in China"

 

[sinoka56]

hopefully, they will test their software thoroughly before releasing a half baked product

(bluetooth problems)

 

[Cineplex]

The more overseas R&D centers they open....the worse the products get. Hm.

 

[cube]

The more overseas R&D centers they open....the worse the products get. Hm.

You cannot blanket blame overseas development.

 

[Cineplex]

You cannot blanket blame overseas development.

it has nothing to do with the quality of the workers overseas and everything to do with the decentralization of Apples product development.

 

[guzhogi]

Sorry for my ignorance, but how many R&D facilities does Apple have in the US and what kind of projects do they do there? I wonder if Apple partners with local colleges (and maybe high schools) and offer internships?

 

[Drumjim85]

The more overseas R&D centers they open....the worse the products get. Hm.

Lisa: By your logic I could claim that this rock keeps tigers away.
Homer: Lisa, I want to buy your rock.

 

[Fzang]

Yikes. I can't even imagine how Apple's extended presence would drive up the already insane housing crisis.

 

[gimikinc]

"Designed by Apple in China, Assembled in China"

LOL! so true! Shortening the design to build cycle!

 

[freddiecable]

Like others I wonder what is the outcome of all the new research facilities and increase in staff at Apple?

 

[Michaelgtrusa]

Is this the third center?