Inside Apple's Global Supply Chain: From Design to Production

TLDRApple's complex supply chain spans 43 countries and 6 continents, with components sourced from around the world. The origin of each component can be traced back to its manufacturing location. The company works with various partners to produce its devices, including chip fabrication, packaging, assembly, and more.

Key insights

⚙️Apple's supply chain is incredibly complex, involving multiple partners across different countries.

🗺️Components for Apple devices are sourced from 43 countries and 6 continents.

🖥️Chip fabrication for Apple's devices is outsourced to TSMC in Taiwan.

🔍Tracing the origin of a single component within Apple's supply chain can be challenging.

🌍Apple strives to ensure responsible sourcing of materials and has programs in place to reduce its environmental impact.

Q&A

Where are Apple devices manufactured?

Apple devices are manufactured in various countries, including China and Taiwan, by companies like Foxconn and Pegatron.

How many countries does Apple work with for its supply chain?

Apple works with suppliers in 43 countries across 6 continents for its supply chain.

Who fabricates Apple's chips?

Apple outsources chip fabrication to TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) in Taiwan.

How does Apple ensure responsible sourcing of materials?

Apple maps its supply chain and requires participating suppliers to undergo third-party audits to ensure responsible extraction of minerals.

What is Apple's commitment to environmental sustainability?

Apple aims to use 100% recycled materials in its products and has already made progress in using recycled Tin for its newest iPhones.

Timestamped Summary

00:01Apple designs its new iPhones at its headquarters in Cupertino, California.

00:10Apple's supply chain involves manufacturers from 43 countries and 6 continents.

00:34The A12 chips in iPhones are designed by Apple and fabricated by TSMC in Taiwan.

03:29Apple tracks the sourcing of conflict minerals such as Tin, Tungsten, Gold, and Tantalum.

04:51China is the largest producer of rare earth metals used in iPhone components.

05:53Apple is committed to reducing its environmental footprint and using recycled materials in its products.

06:21Apple's supply chain is a complex process that transforms basic elements into advanced technology.