Apple's UK engineering teams have doubled in size in five years, says tech giant

The US tech giant said it now supported 550,000 jobs in the UK through direct employment, its supply chain and the economy around its App Store

Apple has invested over £18bn in the UK within the last five years, with its engineering teams in Britain doubling, the iPhone giant has revealed.

The US tech company claims it now underpins 550,000 jobs across the UK through direct employment, its extensive supply chain, and the economy surrounding its App Store – where app developers have raked in close to £9bn since its inception in 2008.

Apple's engineering squads are engaged in pivotal work on the company’s most significant services, including cutting-edge technology within Apple Intelligence, the iPhone maker’s array of generative AI-powered tools set to debut in the UK this week, the firm announced.

In addition, Apple's burgeoning television empire, led by its Apple TV+ streaming platform and production division, has also amplified its financial commitment to the UK, with Apple TV+ productions in this country tripling over the past couple of years, the company stated.

Apple CEO Tim Cook expressed said: "We’ve been serving customers in the UK for more than 40 years, and we’re proud of our deep connection with communities across this country. We’re thrilled to be growing our Apple teams here, and to keep supporting the extraordinary innovators, creators, and entrepreneurs who are pushing the boundaries of technology in so many ways."

Chancellor Rachel Reeves hailed companies like Apple as "intrinsic" to the nation's economic success, highlighting their role in job creation. "This government is laser focused on creating the right conditions for growth to help put more money in people’s pockets."

"That’s what underpins the Plan for Change and is what has driven £63bn worth of inward investment in the UK through our first international investment summit. Companies like Apple are intrinsic to the success of our nation’s prosperity – helping deliver jobs, innovative technology, and boost infrastructure."