Tim Cook, Apple's executive chairman and chair of the Tsinghua University School of Economics and Management advisory board, highlighted the rapid expansion of AI applications during the 2026 Global Wealth Management Forum in Shanghai. He noted that AI-assisted programming has lowered technical barriers, allowing individuals with no prior coding experience to develop software.
The integration of machine learning has significantly transformed supply chain operations, particularly in quality control. Apple now utilizes automated machine learning systems for tasks such as color consistency checks across millions of iPhone units, replacing manual inspection processes that were previously standard.
This visit marks Cook's first trip to China since transitioning from CEO to executive chairman. His itinerary included stops in Guangzhou and Beijing, where he attended the Tsinghua University advisory board annual meeting alongside industry leaders like Tencent's Pony Ma and Baidu's Robin Li.
During his visit, Cook met with China's Minister of Commerce, Wang Wentao, to discuss US-China trade relations and the development of artificial intelligence. Cook reaffirmed Apple's commitment to the Chinese market, expressing intentions to expand local business operations and support stable economic ties between the two nations.
