Apple plans to manufacture upcoming iPhone Pro models in India

WEB DESK: Apple is set to broaden its manufacturing presence in India by producing its high-end iPhone “Pro” models domestically for the first time, according to MoneyControl.

Apple began assembling iPhones in India in 2017 with the original iPhone SE. Since then, it has gradually scaled up its production capabilities, with models such as the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 being assembled locally, though their production started several months after their global release.

This trend shifted with the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus, which were manufactured and available in India simultaneously with their international launch.

The company now plans to manufacture the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max in India later this year. Production will be overseen by Apple’s long-time partner Foxconn at its Sriperumbudur facility in Tamil Nadu.

The facility is set to initiate the New Product Introduction (NPI) process, with full-scale production expected to commence following the devices’ release.

This development is part of Apple’s broader strategy to diversify its supply chain away from China and boost its manufacturing capabilities in India. The company aims to increase its Indian production to 25 per cent of all iPhones over the next few years, up from the current 14 per cent.

The Indian government has actively supported such investments by offering incentives to attract major manufacturers. In line with these plans, Apple is investing significantly to meet the anticipated high demand for the iPhone 16 series, with a target to produce 90 million units in 2024, marking a 10 per cent increase over the previous year’s production of the iPhone 15 models.

Additionally, reports suggest that Apple is considering commencing iPad production in India for the first time and may also start manufacturing AirPods in the country later this year.

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