The iPhone 16 Pro will likely be assembled in India and could cost less than its predecessor
August 21, 2024, 2:01 p.m. IST
Foxconn expands iPhone production in India with the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max.
The iPhone 16 series launch is just a few weeks away, increasing the curiosity of fans and iPhone buyers. As the launch schedule draws closer, a new report is circulating about the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max that could lead to a major shift in iPhone production and price. Reportedly, Apple is planning to start production of the upcoming Pro models in India, which would make them the first premium iPhone models to be produced outside of China. Moreover, this big move could also lead to lower production costs for the iPhone 16 Pro models. Know what to expect ahead of the launch.
iPhone 16 Pro, Pro Max production in India
Bloomberg reported that Foxconn, the Taiwan-based manufacturing company that handles iPhone production for Apple, will reportedly expand its manufacturing base to India to reduce dependence on China. It highlighted that the company is expanding its manufacturing operations and that the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will be developed in India. Assembly could take place in Tamil Nadu and Foxconn has reportedly hired thousands of workers for training.
The report also claims that Apple has partnered with Pegatron and Tata Group for the smooth assembly of smartphones. Currently, it is reported that the workers in India are being trained for the production process to meet Apple standards. Therefore, the official assembly will begin after the official launch announcement of the iPhone 16, which is expected to happen on September 10.
iPhone 16 Pro, Pro Max Price
Since the production of the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max might take place in India, the price of these smartphones is also expected to come down. However, the price might only reflect the product cost, while the retail price is expected to remain the same due to taxes and component costs.
Previously, Apple had to pay high import duties, making the smartphone more expensive than in any other region. By developing these smartphones locally, Apple is expected to save 10% in costs compared to last year.
Furthermore, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max made in India are likely to be exported to several regions such as Europe, West Asia, and the United States. However, note that Apple has not confirmed these claims yet, so we will have to wait for the official launch of the iPhone 16 to know how Apple plans to market the new generation of iPhone.