Apple has opened a new applied research laboratory in the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong tech cooperation zone in Shenzhen, China. The facility, which began operations on Thursday, significantly expands the company’s research and development capabilities in the world’s largest smartphone market.
The new Shenzhen lab will enhance testing and research for major products including the iPhone, iPad, and Vision Pro spatial computing headset. Testing will focus on testing new materials and production techniques, to ensure that Apple products can hold up under extreme conditions. The lab is also intended to strengthen Apple’s collaboration with local suppliers.
The initial phase of the facility includes 20,000 square meters (215,000 square feet) of space, and is set to become Apple’s research and development hub in the Greater Bay Area.
State media reports say the lab will eventually employ over 1,000 domestic and international employees.
The move comes as Apple faces increasing competition in China, particularly from Shenzhen-based Huawei.
Although Apple continues to attempt to diversify its supply chain in countries outside of China, the company continues to invest in research facilities inside the country.