Apple is planning significant changes in the production of the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models this year. While there were earlier reports suggesting that Apple might expand its manufacturing in India and assemble the Pro series iPhones there for the first time, Wedbush Securities analyst Dan Ives believes this might not happen. Letโs dive into Appleโs 2024 production strategy.
iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max Production: Will It Stay in China or Move to India?
According to Ives, while India may produce some of the basic models and other Apple hardware, the production of high-end models like the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max is likely to continue in China. He notes, “The iPhone 16 could be one of Appleโs most important launches in the last decade, making it crucial that the supply chain is flawless.” He further points out that India might not be able to fully guarantee the necessary reliability in this critical process.
This year, aside from the iPhone 16 Pro and Max, Apple only assembled the basic version of the iPhone 15 in India, with the iPhone 15 Plus also being produced there later. However, the high-end models remain primarily produced in China.
Counterpoint data reveals that while Apple holds just 6% of Indiaโs smartphone market in terms of units, it commands a 23% share of revenue as of 2023, surpassing Samsung‘s 21% share. This highlights the importance of India in Apple’s overall strategy, especially given that Apple sold over 10 million iPhones in India in 2023, up from 6 million in 2022.
The decision on where to manufacture the iPhone 16 could have significant implications for both the Indian and Chinese markets. However, uncertainty remains regarding the production of these high-end models. What are your thoughts? Feel free to share in the comments below.
