Apple has initiated the training of workers at its Tamil Nadu factory to produce the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models, marking a significant step in the company’s manufacturing expansion in India. This move aligns with Apple’s strategy to enhance its production capabilities within the country, reinforcing its commitment to diversifying its supply chain.
The premium Pro and Pro Max models of the upcoming iPhone 16 series will be assembled in India for the first time through Apple’s key manufacturing partner, Foxconn. According to a report by Bloomberg News, Foxconn is set to begin assembling these high-end devices “within weeks” of their global launch, signaling Apple’s increasing confidence in its Indian operations.
The ‘new product introduction’ (NPI) process for the Pro models is expected to commence soon at Foxconn’s Sriperumbudur facility in Tamil Nadu. Once the models are launched, this process will transition into the mass production stage, aiming to meet both domestic and international demand.
Apple’s other manufacturing partners in India, including Pegatron’s local unit and the Tata Group, are also likely to start producing the Pro versions in the near future. Additionally, Apple is expected to release India-manufactured standard iPhone 16 models on the same day as the global launch, showcasing its growing reliance on Indian manufacturing hubs.
Apple’s production in India has witnessed substantial growth in recent years. In FY24, the company assembled $14 billion worth of iPhones in India, which accounted for 14% of its global iPhone production. Apple has set an ambitious target to increase this share to 25% over the next three to four years.
The tech giant’s Indian expansion isn’t limited to iPhones. Plans are underway to manufacture iPads through Foxconn, with AirPods production expected to commence in India early next year. This diversification into other product categories underscores Apple’s strategy to make India a critical node in its global manufacturing network.
Apple’s strong foothold in India’s premium smartphone segment has been a key driver of its success. In Q1 2024, Apple achieved its highest-ever market share in India’s premium smartphone category, which includes devices priced over INR 30,000. The company led both in terms of value and volume, contributing significantly to the overall growth of the Indian smartphone market.
According to a report, “This premium segment reached a record 20% share by volume and 51% by value of the overall Indian smartphone market.” Apple’s remarkable performance, fueled by the iPhone 15 series and robust sales in offline channels, has played a pivotal role in this expansion. The Indian smartphone market saw an 8% year-on-year increase in volume and an 18% rise in value during the first quarter of 2024.
