Apple to Assemble iPhone 16 Pro Series in India: Report

Apple is likely to unveil its next-gen iPhone 16 series next month, comprising the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. For the first time, the iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max models will be assembled in India and exported globally. This information comes from a leaked image of an iPhone box label showing "Made In India" printed on it.

The box labels for these models also state "Designed by Apple in California." Initially, these models will be exported to meet demand in various markets. Local production is expected to start in Indian factories shortly after the launch.

According to a report by The Economic Times, Apple has commenced the iPhone 16 Pro series trial assembly at its Chennai manufacturing facility.

Moreover, Apple is reportedly exporting the newly assembled iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models to markets such as the United States, the Middle East, and Europe. This strategy aims to establish a robust local supply chain while catering to global demand.

In addition to Foxconn, other Apple partners in India, such as Pegatron and Tata Group, are anticipated to begin manufacturing the iPhone 16 Pro models soon. This expansion underscores Apple's commitment to increasing its manufacturing presence in India.

It is worth noting that this is not Apple's first venture into assembling iPhones in India; last year, the company has been manufacturing select models of iPhones in the country starting in 2021 and the iPhone SE is the first model that was assembled in India.

The shift towards local assembly of high-end models like the iPhone 16 Pro series highlights Apple's growing confidence in India's manufacturing capabilities. This growth is expected to lead to the introduction of more advanced manufacturing techniques domestically. According to another leak, Apple is also reportedly planning to manufacture the entire iPhone 17 series in India.

As Apple expands its manufacturing footprint in India, rapid growth in local production is expected following the initial export phase. This expansion represents Apple's commitment to manufacturing in India and aims to establish a robust local supply chain while catering to global demand.