Apple CEO Tim Cook has been called out by social media for giving Donald Trump an unexpected gift.
This week, the head of the technology company joined the President in the Oval Office to announce that Apple is adding $100 billion to the $500 billion pledge the company had made in February to boost its investment in US manufacturing and tech training.
On Wednesday (August 6), Cook confirmed the company's expansion of its 18-year-old partnership with the New York-based company Corning, which makes the glass for iPhone and Apple Watch screens.
Apple has faced significant pressure from President Trump to relocate its manufacturing to the US, following the 79-year-old's specific mention of them in discussions about tariffs on phone parts.
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“We’re going to be putting a very large tariff on chips and semiconductors but the good news for companies like Apple is that if you’re building or are committed to build in the United States, there will be no charge,” Trump said.
In May, Trump threatened a 25 per cent tariff on Apple if it failed to cut ties with its international manufacturers.
According to Fortune, Cook also forecasted a huge $1.1 billion blow as a result of the tariffs, if it continues to use its production partners in China and India.
But now, Cook says that Apple aims to manufacture all the glass used on the front of iPhones and Apple Watches right in Kentucky, and it seems that he is solidifying his commitment to this ongoing development with a gift - a customized glass plaque on top of a 24-karat gold stand.
“It’s a unique unit of one,” Cook said, as he also pointed out that the gift box was made in California.
The sculpture is engraved with the President's name, with Cook further adding that the design was made by a former US Marine corporal who is now employed at Apple.
Reuters reports that the price of gold is now more than $3,300 per ounce. However, Trump seemed to like it, as he said: “Thank you very much. It’s fantastic.”
Trump also praised Apple's decision as 'historic', adding: "Apple will build the largest and most sophisticated smart glass production line in the world."
However, commentators have shared their concern about what the gift could mean.
“Call it what it is: a bribe dressed as a gift,” one outraged X user posted, while another claimed: “Steve Jobs is turning in his grave.”
Another X user wrote: “Tim Cook showed up with a made-up award, praised Trump on camera to placate him, and walked out with a tariff exemption.”
UNILAD has contacted representatives for Tim Cook and Apple for comment.
Topics: Apple, Tim Cook, Donald Trump, Technology
Gregory Robinson