Apple CEO Cook employee meeting details revealed: responds to AI, succession planning, and memory shortages

Tech News from Phoenix Network: Beijing Time, February 6 — According to Bloomberg, Apple CEO Tim Cook held a company-wide meeting on Thursday, addressing several employee concerns including AI, succession planning, memory shortages, and immigration enforcement.

When discussing AI, Cook stated that new Apple devices will utilize this technology. He also reviewed record-breaking holiday quarter results, Apple’s services business, and plans to celebrate the company’s 50th anniversary.

“AI is one of the most profound opportunities we’ve encountered in our lifetime,” he said. “I firmly believe that no other company is better positioned than Apple to help customers use AI in meaningful and impactful ways.”

Regarding concerns over competitors launching new AI devices, Cook responded, “AI will create entirely new categories of products and services, and we are incredibly excited about it. The opportunities it opens for Apple also fill us with anticipation.”

Cook also briefly touched on succession planning. He said, “I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about who will be making decisions five or ten years from now. I even obsess over who the leaders will be fifteen years down the line.”

Apple’s Chief Operating Officer, Head of Environment, and General Counsel have all announced retirement plans in recent months. Cook stated these changes are carefully planned, “not sudden developments.” However, he did not mention the recent departures of AI head John Giannandrea and Design Chief Alan Dye.

“Leadership involves thinking about these things and making proper plans,” Cook said. “It’s natural that when people reach a certain age, they retire.”

Cook addressed the memory chip shortage facing the tech industry, calling it “a challenge we must face.” He said Apple COO Sabih Khan is focused on resolving the issue.

“The most important thing is that we have the best team in the world to handle this,” he said. “We are evaluating a range of options and will implement solutions to address this problem. It is indeed a serious issue.”

He also announced that Apple will celebrate its 50th anniversary this April. “Recently, I’ve been reflecting deeply on Apple because we’ve been thinking about how to commemorate this milestone,” he said. “When you truly pause and look back over the past 50 years, it’s an emotional experience. Truly. I promise there will be celebrations.”

Looking at international markets, Cook highlighted progress in India, Malaysia, and other regions. “Emerging markets are very important to us,” he said. “Our share in these markets is still small, but the potential is huge.”

Regarding the current US immigration enforcement issues, Cook expressed his deep concern, stating he is committed to pressuring lawmakers to address these problems.

At the Thursday employee meeting, Cook said, “I’ve heard some of you are even afraid to leave your homes. No one should feel that way. No one should.”