During Trump’s second administration, CEO Tim Cook of the company announced a commitment to invest as much as $600 billion into the U.S. economy over the next four years. He also hinted at Apple’s intention to shift some of its production operations to the United States. Although the aspiration of manufacturing the iPhone domestically may not materialize, Tim Cook confirmed in an Apple press announcement that production of the Mac Mini will commence in Houston, Texas, by the conclusion of 2026.
This signifies that Apple will initiate production in the United States of one of its top-selling computers. Since the introduction of the Mac Mini featuring the M4 chip, which we have evaluated, this computer has gained popularity due to its affordability and robust processor. Researchers, developers, and other professionals have been purchasing and accumulating Mac Minis to execute their own local AI models. Additionally, the Mac Mini stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking a high-performance Mac device at a reasonable price.
Apple’s pivot towards the U.S. was publicized several years prior. During President Donald Trump’s initial term, Apple vowed to begin manufacturing some of its products on American soil. At that time, in September 2019, the selected product was the Mac Pro. Apple began assembling the computer in Austin, Texas, attributing the decision to lower demand and a higher price point compared to its other offerings.
Apple’s collaborator TSMC is in the process of expanding its production of Apple chips.
With Apple focusing on the assembly of the Mac Mini in Houston, the company anticipates its chip manufacturing partner, TSMC, will further enhance its facilities in the U.S. Up to this point, TSMC is capable of producing Apple’s A16 and Apple Watch processors, which power various devices such as the HomePod, Apple Watch, Studio Display, and earlier iPhone versions.
Nonetheless, TSMC plans to initiate the manufacturing of 3-nanometer chips, which could eventually encompass a broader spectrum of Apple products being produced domestically. The 3 nm technology is implemented in Apple’s A17, A18, A19, M3, M4, and M5 chips, which comprise all the current products available, including the M4 Mac Mini — but it may also potentially include a forthcoming M5 Mac Mini.
While it is likely that Apple will continue to produce the majority of its Mac Minis overseas, it does provide American consumers the chance to purchase a Mac “Made in America.” This is advantageous not only for the firm’s public image but also aids in navigating the political and economic challenges faced by large tech corporations reliant on China amidst Trump’s tariffs. Other sources have also indicated that TSMC plans to produce 2 nm chips in the U.S. in the future, paving the way for the manufacture of more powerful A20 and M6 chips domestically and leading to advanced technologies.
Apple elaborates on its initiatives in the U.S.
In an official statement, Tim Cook expressed that “Apple is profoundly devoted to the future of American manufacturing, and we’re excited to notably broaden our presence in Houston with the start of Mac mini production later this year.” He further mentioned that the Houston facility is already delivering AI servers sooner than anticipated.
Moreover, Apple is establishing a 20,000-square-foot Advanced Manufacturing Center that aims to equip Americans with the necessary expertise to assist Apple in product assembly within the country. The goal is also to enhance the overall high-end manufacturing capabilities of the United States. The company pledges to instruct advanced manufacturing methods to students, supplier staff, and American enterprises in general.
Even though Apple is gearing up to relocate Mac Mini production to the U.S., this may also suggest that the Mac Studio could follow suit. The design of the computer is akin to that of the Mac Mini, but it incorporates more premium components, including Max and Ultra processors. Given that Apple currently does not have plans for releasing a new Mac Pro, it would be logical for Foxconn to begin assembling these two Macs in the U.S.; however, it remains uncertain whether the company would bring its MacBook or other productions to the United States.