In a major milestone, Apple has begun producing its flagship iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models in India, just weeks after the global launch of the new smartphone series. This development marks the first time the company has manufactured its entire iPhone lineup within the country, underlining India’s growing importance in Apple’s global operations.
“Apple is now manufacturing the entire iPhone 16 lineup, including iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max, in India,” the company said in a statement. The move is seen as a significant step in Apple’s broader strategy to diversify its supply chain and reduce dependence on China for manufacturing.
Alongside local production, Apple also announced plans to expand its retail footprint in India, aiming to establish more flagship stores in key metropolitan cities. New stores are expected to open in Bengaluru, Pune, Delhi, and Mumbai in the coming months. This move highlights Apple’s recognition of India as a critical market for both sales and manufacturing.
“Our stores are incredible places to experience the magic of Apple, and it’s been wonderful to deepen our connection with our customers in India,” said Diedre O’Brien, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Retail, in a statement. “We’re thrilled to build our teams as we plan to open more stores in India, because we’re inspired by the creativity and passion of our customers across this country.”
The expansion follows the successful opening of Apple’s flagship stores in Mumbai and Delhi earlier this year, which have seen overwhelming footfall and customer engagement.
The production of the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models in India is particularly significant as these models are more complex to manufacture compared to the base versions. Apple’s ability to produce these high-end models locally indicates a substantial upgrade in India’s manufacturing capabilities.
“Manufactured in India iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will soon be available for our local customers and for export to select countries across the world,” Apple confirmed in its statement.
The locally produced iPhone 16 Pro models are expected to hit the Indian market soon, offering consumers quicker access to the latest technology at potentially more competitive prices due to reduced import costs. Additionally, a portion of these India-manufactured iPhones will be exported to international markets, further cementing India’s role as a key player in Apple’s global supply chain.
Since Apple first began iPhone production in India in 2017, starting with the iPhone SE, the company’s manufacturing operations in the country have expanded significantly. Today, Apple employs more than 3,000 people directly in India, with its collaboration with local suppliers supporting hundreds of thousands of additional jobs nationwide.
The move to manufacture the iPhone 16 Pro series locally is expected to bolster India’s position as a hub for high-tech manufacturing. It also aligns with the Indian government’s *Make in India* initiative, which aims to encourage multinational companies to manufacture products domestically, boosting employment and technological capabilities.
Apple’s collaboration with Indian suppliers has also deepened over the years, with the company sourcing components from a growing network of local businesses. This has had a cascading effect on the Indian economy, creating a broader ecosystem of skilled labor and technical expertise.
India is rapidly emerging as one of Apple’s fastest-growing markets, both in terms of sales and production. The country’s vast population, growing middle class, and increasing demand for premium smartphones have made it a focal point for Apple’s global strategy. India now stands as the world’s second-largest smartphone market, after China, with significant room for growth in premium segments where Apple dominates.
Apple’s investment in India has been steadily growing, with the company ramping up its presence in the country in recent years. The opening of retail stores, increased local production, and collaboration with Indian suppliers reflect Apple’s commitment to the Indian market. The company’s growing foothold in India also comes amid shifting global trade dynamics, with companies like Apple seeking to diversify their manufacturing bases.
Apple’s decision to begin manufacturing its high-end iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models in India, coupled with its plans for expanding retail stores across key cities, underscores the company’s long-term vision for the Indian market. This strategic shift is not only a testament to India’s growing importance as a global manufacturing hub but also highlights the increasing demand for premium technology in the country.
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