Apple plans to expand manufacturing in India with iPad and AirPods production, eyeing local growth: Report
Apple is preparing to manufacture iPads and AirPods in India as part of its ambitious expansion strategy, according to a recent report. report According to Moneycontrol, the Cupertino-based tech giant is in the process of looking for a suitable manufacturing partner for iPad production in the country.
Legal Barriers in 2021
Previously, Apple encountered obstacles in 2021 when it planned to produce iPad with China’s BYD in India was stalled due to regulatory issues, as BYD is a wholly-owned Chinese company. However, recent developments suggest that the situation has changed. A senior government official revealed that efforts are underway to facilitate Apple’s expansion plans over the next few years, predicting significant growth opportunities.
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Apple AirPods Production Coming Soon
In addition to iPads, Apple is also eyeing the production of AirPods in India, with plans to start production as early as next year. The company has been ramping up its manufacturing capacity in India, especially for iPhones. Notably, Apple is partnering with US contract manufacturer Jabil to produce components for the AirPods wireless charging case in Pune, which are currently being exported to China and Vietnam.
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The initiative marks a significant step towards establishing a comprehensive supply chain in India. Apple aims to leverage local manufacturing not only to meet global demand but also to cater to the growing domestic market. Discussions are underway with Foxconn to begin trial production of AirPods TWS (true wireless stereo) components, further cementing Apple’s commitment to growing its manufacturing footprint in India.
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Since 2017, Apple has been assembling iPhones in India through three contract manufacturers: Foxconn, Pegatron, and Wistron (now owned by Tata). With the aim of manufacturing a quarter of all iPhones in India within the next three to four years, Apple’s expansion plans underscore its strategic intent to diversify its manufacturing base and strengthen its presence in the Indian market.
In short, Apple’s upcoming initiative to manufacture iPads and AirPods in India signals a major milestone in the company’s global manufacturing strategy. With government support and strategic partnerships, Apple aims to establish a robust manufacturing ecosystem that will not only support the company’s global operations but also strengthen India’s position in the global tech manufacturing landscape.
