Apple CEO Tim Cook Visits China's AI Hub Hangzhou, Donates to Zhejiang University:

Apple Inc. CEO Tim Cook recently visited Hangzhou, China—a rapidly emerging hub for artificial intelligence and the birthplace of AI innovator DeepSeek. During his visit, Cook engaged with aspiring developers at Zhejiang University, one of China’s top academic institutions. In a gesture of support, Apple announced a donation of 30 million yuan (approximately $4.1 million) to the university, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing tech talent in the region.

Cook shared the update on his official Weibo account, expressing enthusiasm for meeting “the next generation of developers.” Zhejiang University boasts a strong alumni network, which includes notable figures such as DeepSeek founder Liang Wenfeng and PDD Holdings Inc.’s Colin Huang.

Hangzhou is home to several leading Chinese tech firms, including Alibaba Group and a cohort of promising startups referred to as the “Six Little Dragons.” These include AI startup Manycore Tech Inc. and robotics innovator Unitree Robotics. These companies are seen as symbols of a potential revival in China's tech sector, especially in the face of ongoing U.S. export restrictions.

It remains unclear whether Cook will meet with these local tech firms during his time in Hangzhou. Apple has not issued further comments regarding his full itinerary. Cook’s China trip began with a meeting in Beijing attended by Chinese Premier Li Qiang. His visit comes amid rising geopolitical tensions, with the U.S. threatening new tariffs and sanctions targeting China’s technology industry.