Apple only shipped the iPhone 16 last month, but it’s already working on the manufacturing process for next year’s iPhone 17 model. And, as a milestone for the company’s supply chain, it is reported that the initial production units of the base iPhone 17 will be developed in India.
Shift from China only applies to base iPhone 17
Apple’s dependence on China for manufacturing is well documented. CEO Tim Cook even reportedly promised to continue increasing Apple’s investment in China during a recent government visit.
But Apple has long worked to diversify its supply chain to reduce its dependence on China. There are many economic and risk mitigation reasons for diversification.
Apple has reportedly achieved another major milestone in this regard.
Wayne Marr writes: information:
Apple is using a factory in India for the first time to do initial manufacturing work on the base model of next year’s iPhone 17, according to two people with direct knowledge of the situation. Choosing an Indian factory for this stage of iPhone development – figuring out how to transform a prototype designed in Cupertino into a device that can be mass-produced – allows Apple to diversify its supply chain from China to India. It highlights his progress and his confidence. This is the high level of ability of Indian engineers.
This is the most difficult and resource-intensive part of Apple’s product development, according to current and former Apple employees. This work, known internally as “New Production Introduction” (NPI), involves fine-tuning the iPhone’s design and materials, experimenting with different types of equipment and manufacturing processes, and producing millions of products per day in various locations. This includes ensuring that iPhones are produced with minimal defects. Most of this development typically occurs between October and May.
Ma points out that this change only applies to the base model iPhone 17.
Apple will continue to do initial manufacturing and testing of the iPhone 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, and the long-awaited iPhone 17 Air in China.
Still, this is an important development for all the reasons Marr points out. Historically, the manufacturing expertise found in China has been difficult for Apple to replicate in other countries.
However, if things go well with the iPhone 17, we should expect further milestones and expansion of Indian manufacturing in the future.
What do you think about Apple achieving this new milestone? Let us know in the comments.
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