CUPERTINO, CA, USA – Apple Inc. is set to produce all four models of its upcoming iPhone 17 series in India, marking a significant shift in its manufacturing strategy.
This move, reported by Bloomberg, signifies the first time Apple will manufacture its entire iPhone line up for the U.S. market in India from the outset.
The production will take place across five facilities in India, including two newly operational plants. Notably, Foxconn’s Bengaluru unit and Tata Group’s facility in Tamil Nadu are central to this expansion.
Tata’s involvement has grown substantially, with its plants expected to account for nearly half of India’s iPhone output over the next two years.
This strategic shift is part of Apple’s broader “China-plus” strategy, aiming to diversify its manufacturing base amid ongoing global trade tensions.
Despite facing additional levies on Russian oil imports, U.S. consumer electronics, including iPhones assembled in India, currently remain exempt from import tariffs.
Industry analysts view this move as a response to the challenges posed by the U.S.-China trade war and the need for supply chain resilience.
Mark N. Vena, president of SmartTech Research, emphasized that shifting production away from China reduces exposure to geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions.
Apple’s commitment to maintaining product quality remains steadfast. While initial quality control issues were reported in India, Apple has invested in worker training and oversight to align Indian production with its global standards. Experts believe consumers are unlikely to notice any difference in product quality.
The iPhone 17 series is expected to launch in September 2025, featuring significant design and camera upgrades. Reports suggest that Apple is preparing a slimmer model and a substantial redesign for the Pro versions.
