Apple R&D Centers: Is Apple R&D Coming to Shanghai in the Near Future?

Apple R&D Centers: There is no denying the fact that Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) is looking to dump more resources into the Chinese market. Earlier this month, company CEO Tim Cook spent a few days in China. While there were many reasons for his visit – from visiting resellers to a meeting with China Mobile – some more information has been brought to the forefront.

There is a rumor that Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) has plans to open a research and development center in the Pudong area of Shanghai. Although there is no firm confirmation just yet, this addition to the Chinese market would make perfect sense.

Apple Inc. (AAPL), iPhone 5Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) Press Info

CNET China, with translation assistance from BrightWire, is reporting the following:

“The facility will consist of three six-story buildings built in a Baroque style with a total area covering over 100,000 square feet.”

“The sources claim Apple began laying out the project six or seven years ago and plans to take residence in the space this summer. They go on to say that while construction of the center’s exterior is complete, the interior has yet to be decorated. When the project is complete, Apple is expected to pay an annual rent of over 50 million yuan, or more than $8 million.”

One of the most interesting details in that quote is that Apple has been working on the project for roughly seven years. In other words, this is not something the company recently began to consider. Instead, they have had their eye on this area of China for quite some time. This is proof, once again, that Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) always has one eye on the future.

Here is a breakdown of all the information that has been reported so far, as collected by BrightWire:

“Apple will announce the opening of its R&D center in China this summer, but instead of being located in Beijing as rumored, the center will be situated in Pudong, Shanghai, an unnamed insider source told CNET today.”

“According to the pictures provided by the source, the center consists of three six-story Baroque style buildings with total floor area standing at approximately 10,000 sqm.”

“The company began the plan to build its R&D center in China some 6-7 years ago; the total annual rent for the three buildings will exceed CNY 50 million (USD 8.04 million).”

What are your thoughts on Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) putting so many resources into the Chinese market? Is this a good idea for the tech giant? Share your thoughts below in the comment section.

Check back here for more updates on Apple R&D Centers.

DISCLOSURE: I have no positions in any stock mentioned.

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