iPhones Will Be Made in America Sooner Than You Think

The days of total iPhone dependence on China are numbered.

Apple’s journey toward domestic manufacturing has been a complex interplay of political negotiations, economic incentives, and strategic investments.

A Timeline of U.S. Efforts to Bring iPhone Production Home

2018 – Initial Discussions Under President Trump

In 2018, President Donald Trump engaged in discussions with Apple, encouraging the company to shift manufacturing to the United States. In response, Apple announced a $350 billion investment plan over five years, including the creation of 20,000 jobs. However, this commitment did not specifically target iPhone manufacturing, and the broader supply chain remained largely in China.

2020–2022 – The CHIPS and Science Act Under President Biden

Recognizing the need to bolster domestic semiconductor production, the Biden administration enacted the CHIPS and Science Act in 2022. This legislation provided substantial funding to encourage companies like Apple to invest in U.S.-based manufacturing. Subsequently, Apple became a key customer for TSMC’s new fabrication plants in Arizona, marking a significant step toward domestic chip production.

Current Developments in U.S. iPhone Manufacturing

• TSMC’s Arizona Facilities: TSMC is constructing two advanced semiconductor fabrication plants in Arizona, with Apple as a primary client. These facilities are expected to produce Apple’s custom-designed chips, such as the A-series processors, which are central to iPhone functionality.

• Apple’s In-House Modem Development: Apple is developing its own 5G modem, aiming to reduce reliance on external suppliers. This modem is slated for production in the United States, further localizing critical components of the iPhone.

Recent Tariff Exemptions and Political Commitments

In April 2025, the Trump administration announced exemptions for consumer electronics, including smartphones and laptops, from newly imposed reciprocal tariffs. This move alleviated potential cost increases for companies like Apple, which heavily depend on Chinese manufacturing.

Despite these exemptions, President Trump has reiterated his commitment to reshoring manufacturing. The administration maintains that such tariff relief is temporary and emphasizes the long-term goal of encouraging companies to establish production facilities within the United States.

Conclusion

iPhones Will Be Made in America. While challenges remain, including the complexity of supply chains and the need for skilled labor, the trajectory toward U.S.-based iPhone manufacturing is becoming increasingly tangible. Through strategic investments and evolving political landscapes, Apple is progressively aligning its production closer to home, signaling a significant shift in the manufacturing paradigm.