Social media users have criticized Apple CEO Tim Cook for presenting an unexpected gift to Donald Trump.
During this week, Cook joined the President at the Oval Office to announce that Apple is increasing its previous $500 billion commitment by an additional $100 billion to enhance investment in U.S. manufacturing and technology training.
On Wednesday, August 6, Cook confirmed Apple’s expansion of its long-standing partnership with Corning, a New York-based company responsible for producing the glass used in iPhone and Apple Watch screens.
Apple has been under pressure from President Trump to move its manufacturing operations to the United States, especially after Trump mentioned the company in conversations about tariffs on phone components.
“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 stated.
In May, Trump threatened Apple with a 25 percent tariff if it did not cut ties with international manufacturers.
As reported by Fortune, Cook warned of a potential $1.1 billion impact on the company if tariffs continue, due to its reliance on production partners in China and India.
However, Cook now states that Apple plans to manufacture all of the glass for iPhones and Apple Watches in Kentucky. To mark this development, he presented a gift—a customized glass plaque atop a 24-karat gold stand.
“It’s a unique unit of one,” Cook remarked, highlighting that the gift box was crafted in California.
The sculpture, bearing the President’s name, was designed by a former U.S. Marine corporal now employed at Apple, according to Cook.
Reports from Reuters indicate that the current price of gold exceeds $3,300 per ounce. Trump appeared pleased with the gift, stating: “Thank you very much. It’s fantastic.”
Trump also commended Apple’s decision, calling it ‘historic’, and said: “Apple will build the largest and most sophisticated smart glass production line in the world.”
Nonetheless, some commentators have expressed concerns about the implications of the gift.
“Call it what it is: a bribe dressed as a gift,” one expressed on X, with another suggesting: “Steve Jobs is turning in his grave.”
Another X user commented: “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 reached out to representatives for Tim Cook and Apple for further comment.