In a strategic push to localise supply chains and fortify its sustainability efforts, Apple has announced a $500 million investment in U.S.-based rare earths producer MP Materials. The deal marks a major milestone in America’s race to reclaim control over critical minerals essential for clean energy and consumer tech.

A Game-Changer for U.S. Manufacturing

Apple's investment will assist MP Materials in developing a full-fledged rare earth magnet production plant in Fort Worth, Texas—specifically aimed at producing components for Apple devices such as the iPhone and MacBook. The plant will manufacture neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) magnets, essential to the operation of Taptic Engines and speakers.

From Waste to Worth: The Recycling Revolution

The partnership doesn't end at production. Apple and MP are also establishing a cutting-edge recycling facility at MP's Mountain Pass facility in California. This plant will recover magnets from retired electronics, scrap, and industrial waste—doubling down on Apple's ambition to create all its products from recycled or renewable sources.Apple currently has 100% recycled rare earth elements in all of its magnet use across product lines, but this will expand that effort exponentially.

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The Geopolitical Situation

This investment follows rising trade tensions and increasing worries about rare earth reliance on China. The U.S. Department of Defense has already invested $400 million in MP Materials, indicating that tech sovereignty is a national priority.Backed by both private and government support, MP is well-positioned to become a cornerstone for reshoring rare earth supply chains to the U.S.