King Charles visits Apple's UK HQ at Battersea

King Charles visits Apple's UK HQ at Battersea
King Charles visits Apple's UK HQ at Battersea

King Charles III made a significant visit to Apple's UK headquarters at the historic Battersea Power Station in London. The monarch met with Apple CEO Tim Cook, employees, members of the British creative community, and students participating in educational programs supported by Apple and The King's Trust.

During the visit, local schoolchildren from St. George's Primary School created holiday artwork on iPads, which was projected onto the power station's iconic chimneys. Award-winning British musician RAYE delivered a special holiday performance, which she later described as "very scary and very amazing."

The King toured Christmas market stalls, where he engaged with young entrepreneurs supported by The King's Trust's Enterprise programme. Notable attendees included actress Cush Jumbo, artist Yinka Ilori, England rugby players Jess Breach and Lou Meadows, and disability activist Lucy Edwards.

Tim Cook, who flew in specifically for the event, emphasized Apple's 40-year history in the United Kingdom and expressed pride in supporting The King's Trust's educational initiatives. The organization partners with Apple to provide technology workshop sessions aimed at developing young people's creative digital skills and confidence.

The 76-year-old monarch, dressed in a blue suit with a patterned tie, showed particular interest in Apple's AI technology demonstrations and spoke with Rita Kelly, a former power station employee from the 1950s. He also unveiled a commemorative plaque marking his first visit to the refurbished site, which reopened in October 2022.

The visit began with Christmas carols performed by a community choir and concluded with Tim Cook praising the King's "extraordinary leadership, service to the United Kingdom, and lifelong commitment to philanthropy." The event highlighted the continued collaboration between Apple and The King's Trust in providing technological education and opportunities for young people in the UK.