Apple is opening workshops in India. The first production units will be set up there to assemble the basic iPhone 17. This is reported by 9to5Mac.
Apple is trying to diversify its product line to reduce its dependence on China. This is not a complete abandonment of work in China. Production and testing of the iPhone 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, and iPhone 17 Air will continue to take place there. Apple CEO Tim Cook even promised to continue to increase the company's investments in China.
According to two people with direct knowledge of the situation, this is the first time Apple is using an Indian factory for early production of the base model iPhone 17 next year. Local engineers will have to work on the prototype developed in Cupertino and, if necessary, adapt it for mass production.
This process involves refining the design and materials of the iPhone, as well as experimenting with different types of equipment and manufacturing processes. The choice of an Indian plant for this stage of iPhone development is a sign of confidence in the capabilities of Indian engineers. According to Apple's employees, "introducing new production" is the most difficult and resource-intensive aspect of Apple's product development.