Technology giant Apple is looking to set up a new research and development (R&D) center in China. The metropolis of Shenzhen has been picked as the location for the R&D center. Apple is also planning to build another R&D center in Beijing. Shenzhen is also home to Foxconn City, where many of Apple products are assembled.

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China has emerged as one of the biggest markets for the iPhone. However, lately Chinese companies such as Huawei and OPPO have started to give stiff competition to the American company. The new R&D center is expected to enable Apple work closely with its manufacturing partners. The announcement was made by the company CEO Tim Cook, who is currently touring Asia.

In an email comment, an Apple spokesman said that Apple is excited to have a new place in China. The company will also seek to enhance its collaboration with "local partners and universities." Shenzhen is a major manufacturing hub in China. Many prominent Chinese companies including ZTE have a presence in the city.

Apart from setting up an R&D center, Apple also announced the infusion of $1 billion into Didi Chuxing. The US technology company acquired a board seat in the ride sharing company.

Adrian Perica, Apple's head of mergers and acquisitions, is expected to represent Apple on the board. The investment may provide Apple with crucial data regarding electric and self-driving car technology.

China and Apple share a love-hate relationship. While China is a massive market for Apple, the government has also banned various Apple services such as iBooks and iTunes Movie in the country. 

Tagsapple, Didi Chuxing, Foxconn City, Huawei