Why doesn't the US just make its own iPhones instead of buying them from China?

The reason the US does not make its own iPhones is due to several factors, including cost, expertise, and supply chain considerations. Firstly, the cost of producing iPhones in the US would be significantly higher than in China due to the higher wages and labor standards in the US. Secondly, China has developed a highly skilled workforce and advanced manufacturing infrastructure that would be difficult for the US to replicate without significant investment and time.

Moreover, Apple has developed a complex and efficient global supply chain that relies heavily on Chinese manufacturers and suppliers. This supply chain includes not only the production of the iPhone, but also the sourcing and manufacturing of the many components that go into it. While it is possible for Apple to shift some production to other countries, such a move would be complex and time-consuming, and would likely result in higher costs and potentially lower quality.

It is important to note that Apple is not the only company that relies heavily on China for manufacturing. Many other technology companies, including Microsoft, Dell, and HP, also manufacture their products in China.