Apple sets up R&D centre in Beijing

BEIJING: Apple has established its first directly invested research and development centre in China at a total investment of $50 million to develop advanced technologies.

It will have 500 employees, and will focus on developing computer hardware, communications, audio and video equipment, consumer electronics technology and information technology, state-run People's Daily reported.

The centre is located at the Zhongguancun Science Park Administrative Committee, state-run People's Daily reported today.

It was established with registered capital of 100 million RMB ($16 million) while the total investment is 300 million RMB ($50 million).

Tim Cook, Apple's CEO, visited China for the ninth time in August this year during which he promised to increase investment in China, and announced plans to set up the research and development centre by the end of 2016.

He underlined that he would actively participate in China's "Internet Plus" movement.