A limited number of Apple’s iPhone 15 models manufactured in India may be available on the launch day for the first time, according to a report from Bloomberg. Apple has been producing iPhones in India since 2017, but it usually takes up to a year to ramp up production. However, this time, a small number of iPhones made in India might be available for sale immediately in the country and some other regions.
Foxconn, an Apple contractor, has been increasing its production of iPhone 15 models at a facility in Tamil Nadu, India. This move is part of Apple’s strategy to diversify its manufacturing locations to mitigate supply chain risks associated with tensions between the US and China. The availability of iPhones made in India on the launch day will depend on the availability of components manufactured elsewhere and Foxconn’s production capabilities.
Historically, only a fraction of Apple’s iPhones have been produced in India, and production typically lagged behind China by several months. However, with the iPhone 14, Foxconn and another manufacturer, Pegatron, were able to begin production in India within the same month as the official release. Apple aims to eventually shift 25 percent of its production to India.
Recent geopolitical tensions between the US and China have had a limited impact on Apple, largely because suppliers like Foxconn employ millions of people in China. However, recent moves by the Chinese government, such as banning iPhones and other foreign devices for government officials, have increased Apple’s vulnerability. China is also a significant market for Apple, accounting for approximately 19 percent of its total revenue.
Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 15, along with potential updates to its watches and AirPods, at its Cupertino headquarters. The new iPhone is rumored to feature thinner bezels, a titanium frame, USB-C charging, and more. Additionally, Apple is likely to introduce its latest operating systems, including iOS 17, watchOS 10, and iPadOS 17.
