Apple chief executive Tim Cook told staff he is profoundly upset by the direction of United States immigration policy and pledged to keep pressing politicians for change, after hearing concerns that some employees feel unsafe even stepping outside their homes.

Speaking at a company-wide meeting on Thursday, Cook said messages from staff had made clear that fear was spreading among parts of Apple’s workforce. He told employees that no one should feel trapped or threatened in their daily lives and said such anxiety was unacceptable in a country built by newcomers.

Cook stressed that immigration policy matters directly to Apple’s future because many of its workers rely on visas to live and work in the US. He said the company’s success over decades had been driven by attracting talent from around the world and argued that diversity of background had made Apple more inventive and competitive. He promised to continue raising the issue with lawmakers and said employees could count on him to keep advocating on their behalf.

The comments came during a broader discussion that ranged from artificial intelligence to leadership planning at the company. Cook had already addressed immigration publicly in a memo issued the previous week, when he said he was heartbroken by events in Minneapolis where two people were killed by federal agents. At the time, he called for restraint and said he had spoken directly with President Donald Trump about the situation.

That memo drew criticism from some staff who felt the response was slow and lacked urgency. Returning to the topic at the meeting, Cook said every individual deserves dignity and respect regardless of where they come from, and he responded directly to an employee worried about deportation and separation from their child.

Cook said he strongly supports the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals programme and told staff he stands behind employees protected under it. He said Apple employs hundreds of people covered by DACA and made clear he would personally speak up for them, adding that he believes deeply in the programme’s value.

Turning to technology, Cook said artificial intelligence would play a central role in future Apple products and services. He described AI as one of the most significant opportunities of modern times and said Apple is uniquely placed to apply it in ways that genuinely help users. Addressing concerns about competitors unveiling new AI-focused devices, he said new categories would inevitably emerge and that Apple is enthusiastic about the possibilities such changes create.

Cook also reflected on Apple’s recent financial performance, including a record holiday quarter and continued growth in services, and spoke about preparing the company for the long term. He said he spends considerable time thinking about who will be leading Apple years from now and described succession planning as a constant priority.

Recent announcements that several senior executives will retire within months were, he said, carefully planned and expected. He characterised such departures as a natural part of organisational life and said good leadership requires anticipating these moments and preparing for them.

Looking ahead, Cook said Apple will mark its 50th anniversary in April and hinted at celebrations to recognise the milestone. He said reflecting on the company’s history had been emotional and energising, adding that the past half-century offered much to celebrate.

International growth was another focus, with Cook pointing to progress in countries such as India and Malaysia. He said emerging markets remain a major priority, noting that Apple’s share is still relatively small but the potential for expansion is significant.

He also acknowledged ongoing pressure from a global shortage of memory chips, calling it a genuine challenge the company is actively managing. Cook said chief operating officer Sabih Khan is leading efforts to navigate the shortage and that Apple is exploring multiple options to minimise disruption, adding that he has confidence in the team handling the issue.