Apple deepens India foothold with new stores, local production of all iPhones

Apple is planning to expand its retail presence in India with more flagship Apple stores in key cities as it aims to create more direct customer interactions and experiences.

In Short

• Apple begins producing iPhone 16 Pro models in India
• Entire iPhone 16 lineup now made locally in India
• Apple plans new flagship stores in key Indian cities

Apple has announced that it will now produce the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max models in India. This move means that for the first time, the entire lineup of iPhones will be made in India. The tech giant, which has been gradually increasing its manufacturing presence in the country, has now achieved a major milestone by including its latest models in local production.

"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.

This decision highlights the growing importance of India in Apple’s global operations, both for local sales and as an export hub.

Apple expands retail presence

In addition to its manufacturing push, Apple is also planning to expand its retail presence in India with more flagship Apple Stores. These new stores are set to open in key cities such as Bengaluru, Pune, Delhi, and Mumbai. The company aims to create more direct customer interactions and experiences through these stores.

"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," she added.

The company opened its first two flagship stores in India earlier this year, and the success of these stores has possibly prompted plans for further expansion.

Pro models now 'Made in India'

While Apple has been making iPhones in India since 2017, it is significant that the more complex iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models will now be manufactured locally. This marks a shift in Apple's reliance on India, not only for basic models but also for its high-end products.

Apple also confirmed that the Pro models made in India will be available to customers in the domestic market and will also be exported to select countries.

. "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," the company said.

Apple’s growing footprint in India extends beyond just manufacturing and retail. The company now employs over 3,000 people in the country, having ramped up production since it began making iPhones in India seven years ago.

"Apple’s work with Indian suppliers of all sizes supports hundreds of thousands of jobs across the country," the company added.