Apple to Celebrate iPhone’s 20th Anniversary in 2027 with a Major Redesign: Mark Gurman

Apple is gearing up for a major redesign of its iPhone lineup to mark its 20th anniversary, expected in the latter half of 2027. This includes a unique flagship iPhone Pro model and a foldable version.

However, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, these models won't be manufactured in India. The anniversary edition is anticipated to feature a predominantly glass design and come with a substantial price tag.

Production Plans for Apple's New Models

Gurman reports that Apple will continue producing its 20th-anniversary iPhone models in China. Despite efforts to expand manufacturing in India, the complexity of these new designs makes it unlikely they will be produced outside China by 2027. Apple has historically launched major new designs in China first.

The foldable iPhone and the glass-centric model are expected to require entirely new components and manufacturing methods. Gurman notes that while India's production quality matches China's for current models, the complexity of these anniversary editions poses significant challenges for Indian manufacturing facilities.

Challenges in Indian Manufacturing

Apple's plans to increase production in India are ongoing, with aims to assemble most US-bound devices there soon. In the year ending March, Apple assembled $22 billion worth of iPhones in India, marking a nearly 60% increase from the previous year. However, the intricate nature of the upcoming models means they will likely remain China-produced initially.

If these new models are made in China, they could incur additional tariffs when exported to other countries, potentially increasing their already high prices. This situation underscores Apple's reliance on Chinese manufacturing for complex product launches despite its efforts to diversify production locations.

The company's strategy reflects a balance between expanding its global manufacturing footprint and maintaining high-quality standards for new product lines. As Apple continues to innovate, it faces logistical challenges that influence where and how its products are made.

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