Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) CEO Tim Cook said in the year-end memo sent to employees that the company has some big plans for 2014 that he hopes consumers will love. Reflecting on 2013, Cook said that millions of people across the globe purchased Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) products this holiday season. The Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) chief said that the tech giant launched blockbuster products in each of its major product categories this year.
Cook reflects on Apple’s achievements in 2013
Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) strengthened its position in the smartphone market with the iPhone 5S, unveiled iOS7, launched theiPad Air and iPad mini with Retina display, and released OS X Mavericks. Last week, the company also began shipment of the “Made In USA” Mac Pro, which is assembled in Austin, Texas. Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) also surpassed a coveted milestone: 50 billion downloads from the App Store.
Cook also talked about the charity work that Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) has done over the past 12 months. The Cupertino-based company has donated millions of dollars to typhoon victims in the Philippines. Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) is the largest contributor to (PRODUCT) RED, which raises awareness and fights against AIDS in Africa. Last month, Sir Jony Ive raised millions of dollars to help Africans fight against AIDS.
Cook added that Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) is an environment-conscious company which has undertaken several environmental initiatives over the last year. Though Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) has been criticized for its ignorance of the environment in the past, the company claims that 75% of its corporate office and all of its data centers are now powered by renewable energy.
What’s next from Apple?
So, what could Tim Cook’s big plans or product launches for 2014 be? As far as analysts and media reports suggest, Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) is expected to launch a 12.9-inch iPad, a large screen iPhone 6, an Apple TV and iWatch. Cook may have some other upcoming products as well that media and supply chain sources aren’t aware of. Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) recently signed a deal with the world’s largest telecom operator, China Mobile. The deal may generate billions of dollars in extra revenues for the company.
Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) shares surged 3.42% to $567.78 in pre-market trading Monday.
