Apple is making significant strides in India with plans to manufacture the entire iPhone 16 lineup and expand its retail stores across the country. The iPhone 16 series includes four models: the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. While it was initially reported that only the Pro variants would be made in India, new updates confirm that all four models will now be produced domestically.
In addition to manufacturing, Apple aims to strengthen its retail presence following the successful launch of its first stores in Mumbai and Delhi in April 2023. According to reports, Apple is set to open four new stores, which will include a second location in Mumbai and additional outlets in Bengaluru, Pune, and the Delhi-NCR region. Deirdre O’Brien, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Retail, expressed enthusiasm about expanding in India, acknowledging the strong performance of the existing stores.
The current Apple stores have significantly contributed to the company's growth in India, accounting for over 20 percent of its total sales in the country, according to industry analysts.
In a major development for the iPhone 16, Apple has begun manufacturing the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max in India, with plans to soon offer these models for both local purchase and export. This move is part of Apple’s strategy to reduce reliance on Chinese production. Reports indicate that Foxconn, Pegatron, and Tata Electronics will play crucial roles in this initiative. Foxconn will produce the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, and iPhone 16 Pro Max, while Pegatron is set to manufacture the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, and iPhone 16 Pro. Tata Electronics will be responsible for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus models.
Apple's manufacturing presence in India has been growing, with the company already producing the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and iPhone 13 models locally. According to the Economic Survey 2023-2024, India contributed 14 percent of global iPhone production, assembling devices valued at $14 billion (approximately ₹1,400 crore).
The Indian government is encouraging Apple to enhance its manufacturing operations within the country. This push is expected to create numerous job opportunities and strengthen India's role in Apple's global supply chain as the company seeks to diversify away from its reliance on China.
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