Overview

• The Trump administration recently announced temporary tariff exemptions for smartphones and laptops, benefiting Apple’s iPhone and Mac product lines.
• President Trump publicly claimed credit for helping Apple secure these exemptions, emphasizing his direct involvement.
• Tim Cook privately met with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and other senior officials to discuss the potential impact of tariffs on Apple’s pricing strategy.
• Cook’s approach included avoiding public criticism of Trump and fostering a direct relationship, bolstered by Apple’s contributions to Trump’s inaugural fund.
• Commerce Secretary Lutnick clarified that the exemptions are not permanent, with a comprehensive tariff plan expected to be unveiled within one to two months.