Wang Chuanfu (2nd L) and Tim Cook (3rd R) talk beside the sand table of BYD’s smart factory during their meeting in Shanghai on March 20. Photo courtesy of Apple

Apple CEO Tim Cook met with Wang Chuanfu, CEO of Pingshan-headquartered BYD, in Shanghai on March 20, underscoring Shenzhen's importance in the global technology supply chain.

They met at a sharing event at Apple's Shanghai office with three suppliers — BYD, Lens Technology, and Everwin Precision — to showcase their latest achievements and progress in intelligent manufacturing, green manufacturing, and talent cultivation.

BYD, having forged a strong partnership with Apple since 2008 by initially supplying metal casings, has now expanded its range of services to provide several essential components for Apple's flagship products, including the iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. This long-standing relationship has seen BYD co-develop an advanced intelligent factory information system with Apple, enhancing transparency and efficiency through the use of cutting-edge data management and machine learning technologies across production processes.

Another Shenzhen-based company, Everwin, which joined the Apple supply circle in 2012, has similarly broadened its supply scope, now contributing major exterior parts for a variety of Apple devices, reaffirming Shenzhen's role as a hub of tech manufacturing innovation.

Lens from Hunan Province has evolved from producing glass screens for the first iPhone to supplying complex components for several current Apple product lines, including Apple Vision Pro during its long-term relationship with the U.S. high-tech giant.

“At Apple we’ve always focused on creating the best products in the world for our customers. And to make the best products we need partners who share our commitment to innovation and protecting the planet. BYD, Lens and Everwin are great examples of companies who are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible every day and we’re excited for the opportunities ahead,” commented Cook in his Weibo post March 20.

Apple has deep-rooted ties with China. Over the past more than 30 years, the tech giant has sourced pioneering materials from Chinese suppliers and introduced latest production techniques to launch inventive products.