Apple is expanding its global manufacturing footprint by producing its flagship iPhone ‘Pro’ models in India for the first time, according to a report by MoneyControl via MacRumors.

– Apple began iPhone production in India in 2017 with the original iPhone SE and has since increased its manufacturing operations in the country.
– The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus were the first models manufactured and made available in India from their global release date.
– The upcoming production of the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max in India signifies a new chapter in Apple’s manufacturing journey, with Foxconn managing production at its Sriperumbudur facility in Tamil Nadu.
– The New Product Introduction (NPI) process will start soon, followed by mass production after the official launch of the devices.

This move is part of Apple’s strategy to reduce its reliance on China and leverage India’s growing manufacturing capabilities. The company aims to produce a quarter of all iPhones in India over the next few years, a significant increase from the current 14%.

– Apple’s confidence in India as a manufacturing hub is reflected in its substantial investment, with plans to produce 90 million units of the iPhone 16 lineup in 2024 – a 10% increase from last year.
– In addition to iPhone 16 Pro models, Apple is exploring manufacturing other products in India. Reports suggest iPads could be produced there for the first time, with rumors hinting at AirPods manufacturing starting later this year.