Apple Eyes India for Foldable iPhone Production Following Taiwan Test Run
Cupertino, California - Apple is planning to manufacture its highly anticipated foldable iPhone in India, following initial test production in Taiwan, according to a new report from Nikkei.the move signals a continued shift in Apple’s manufacturing strategy, diversifying away from its heavy reliance on china.
The company is currently in discussions with suppliers to establish a test production line for the foldable iPhone in Taiwan. If accomplished, mass production is slated to move to India, possibly launching the device next year. Apple anticipates the foldable smartphone will increase total shipments by 10% in 2026.
Advancement of a foldable iPhone has been ongoing for years, as competitors like Samsung, Google, Motorola, and Huawei have already released multiple folding devices. Despite speculation ahead of Apple’s September 9 hardware event, the company instead unveiled its slimmest iPhone yet, the iPhone Air.
This development coincides with a significant expansion of iPhone production within India. Apple is now assembling all iPhone 17 models - including the base, Pro, and Pro Max versions – across five local factories, with two new facilities recently coming online. These facilities,operated by Tata Group in Hosur,Tamil Nadu,and Foxconn near Bengaluru airport,are central to this increased output.
Notably, iPhone shipments to the US already represent a substantial portion of Tata Electronics’ revenue, accounting for over Rs 23,112 crore (approximately $2.78 billion USD) – or 37% - of the company’s FY25 revenue.
Apple CEO Tim Cook confirmed in an August earnings call that the “vast majority” of iPhones sold in the US are now made in India, while the majority of other products like macs, iPads, and Watches are manufactured in Vietnam. He also noted that “the vast majority” of products for other countries still originate from China.