The iPhone, one of the most iconic and revolutionary smartphones in the world, has been a game-changer in the tech industry. With its sleek design, high-performance capabilities, and innovative features, it’s no wonder that the iPhone has captured the hearts of millions of users worldwide. But have you ever wondered who made iPhone in India? In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating story of iPhone’s journey in India, exploring the companies and manufacturers involved in its production.
The Early Days of iPhone in India
Apple, the Cupertino-based tech giant, first brought the iPhone to India in 2008, when the country was still in the nascent stages of its mobile phone revolution. At that time, BlackBerry and Nokia were the dominant players in the Indian market, with Android devices just starting to gain traction. The iPhone’s entry into India was met with skepticism, with many doubting its ability to compete with established brands. However, Apple’s innovative marketing strategies and clever partnerships with Indian carriers helped the iPhone gain a foothold in the market.
Foxconn: The Taiwan-based Electronics Giant
Fast forward to 2015, when Apple decided to start manufacturing iPhones in India. This move was seen as a significant shift in Apple’s strategy, as it marked the company’s first foray into manufacturing outside of China. Foxconn, a Taiwan-based electronics giant, was chosen as Apple’s manufacturing partner in India. Foxconn, also known as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd., is one of the world’s largest contract manufacturers of electronics, with clients including Apple, Amazon, and Cisco Systems.
Foxconn set up its Indian manufacturing facility in Sri City, a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Andhra Pradesh, southern India. The facility, which was initially touted as a US$10 billion investment, was expected to create thousands of jobs and generate significant revenue for the local economy. Foxconn’s Indian operations were initially overseen by its subsidiary, Foxconn International Holdings (FIH).
The Facilities and Production Capacity
Foxconn’s Sri City facility is spread over 1,200 acres, with a production capacity of around 100 million units per annum. The facility is equipped with state-of-the-art manufacturing infrastructure, including automated production lines, quality control systems, and rigorous testing facilities. The facility has been designed to meet Apple’s stringent quality standards, ensuring that every iPhone produced in India meets the company’s global quality benchmarks.
Wistron: The Taiwan-based Manufacturer
In 2017, Apple partnered with another Taiwan-based electronics manufacturer, Wistron Corporation, to expand its iPhone production capacity in India. Wistron, one of the world’s largest original design manufacturers (ODMs), set up its Indian manufacturing facility in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The facility is situated in the Peelamedu region of Coimbatore, which is known for its electronics manufacturing ecosystem.
Wistron’s Indian facility is spread over 43 acres, with a production capacity of around 50 million units per annum. The facility has been designed to produce a range of iPhones, including the iPhone SE, iPhone 7, and iPhone 8.
Key Partnerships and Collaborations
Both Foxconn and Wistron have partnered with local Indian companies to support their iPhone manufacturing operations. These partnerships have enabled Apple to tap into India’s vast pool of talent, skills, and resources, while also providing an opportunity for local businesses to benefit from the iPhone’s global success.
One such partnership is with the Indian IT major, Infosys, which has been providing IT services and support to Foxconn’s Sri City facility. Another partnership is with the Indian logistics major, GATI, which has been handling the logistics and supply chain management for Foxconn’s Indian operations.
Government Support and Incentives
The Indian government has played a crucial role in supporting Apple’s iPhone manufacturing ambitions in the country. The government has offered various incentives, including tax breaks, duty exemptions, and subsidies, to encourage foreign investment in the electronics sector.
The Make in India initiative, launched in 2014, has been instrumental in attracting foreign investment in the manufacturing sector. The initiative has provided a framework for companies to set up manufacturing facilities in India, with incentives and support for investment, infrastructure development, and skill development.
Iphone Production in India: The Benefits
The production of iPhones in India has had a significant impact on the country’s economy and society. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Job Creation**: The iPhone manufacturing facilities of Foxconn and Wistron have created thousands of jobs, both direct and indirect, in India. These jobs have not only benefited local residents but have also attracted talent from across the country.
- Foreign Investment**: Apple’s decision to manufacture iPhones in India has attracted significant foreign investment in the country. This investment has contributed to the growth of India’s electronics sector, generating revenue and creating opportunities for local businesses.
- Skills Development**: The production of iPhones in India has created opportunities for skills development in areas such as manufacturing, quality control, and logistics management. This has enabled Indian workers to acquire specialized skills, which can be used in other industries as well.
- Electronic Component Manufacturing**: The production of iPhones in India has also led to the development of a local ecosystem for electronic component manufacturing. This has enabled Indian companies to supply components to Foxconn and Wistron, reducing dependence on imports and promoting local innovation.
In conclusion, the story of iPhone production in India is a testament to the country’s growing appeal as a manufacturing hub. With global giants like Apple, Foxconn, and Wistron investing in the country’s electronics sector, India is poised to become a significant player in the global smartphone market. As the country continues to attract foreign investment and promote local innovation, the future of iPhone production in India looks bright indeed.
What is the significance of the iPhone’s birthplace in India?
The iPhone’s birthplace in India holds great significance as it marks the beginning of a new era in the Indian electronics manufacturing industry. This milestone has paved the way for other global brands to set up their manufacturing units in India, thereby creating employment opportunities and contributing to the country’s economic growth.
The manufacture of iPhones in India has also led to a reduction in import duties and taxes, making the devices more affordable for Indian consumers. Additionally, this development has increased Apple’s presence in the Indian market, allowing the company to better understand the local consumer preferences and tailor its products accordingly.
Where is the iPhone manufacturing unit located in India?
The iPhone manufacturing unit in India is located in Bangalore, Karnataka. This facility is operated by Wistron, a Taiwanese contract manufacturer that has partnered with Apple to produce iPhones in India. The unit is spread over 43 acres of land and has a production capacity of over 1 million iPhones per month.
The Bangalore facility is strategically located, allowing for easy access to a large talent pool and proximity to major markets. This enables Wistron to efficiently manufacture and supply iPhones to customers across the country.
What is the history behind iPhone manufacturing in India?
The history behind iPhone manufacturing in India dates back to 2017 when Wistron first set up its production facility in Bengaluru. Initially, the company started producing iPhone SE units, followed by the iPhone 6S and iPhone 7 models. Over time, the facility has expanded its production capacity and begun manufacturing newer models, including the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 series.
The Indian government’s “Make in India” initiative and the phased manufacturing program (PMP) also played a significant role in convincing Apple to start manufacturing iPhones in India. These policies offer incentives and tax benefits to companies that set up manufacturing units in the country, making it an attractive destination for global brands.
What are the benefits of iPhone manufacturing in India?
One of the primary benefits of iPhone manufacturing in India is the creation of employment opportunities. The Wistron facility in Bangalore employs thousands of workers, contributing to the local economy and providing a source of income for many families. Additionally, the manufacture of iPhones in India has led to a reduction in import duties and taxes, making the devices more affordable for Indian consumers.
The local production of iPhones has also increased Apple’s presence in the Indian market, allowing the company to better understand local consumer preferences and tailor its products accordingly. Furthermore, the Indian government’s efforts to promote domestic manufacturing have led to the development of a robust electronics manufacturing ecosystem in the country.
What is the current production capacity of the iPhone manufacturing unit in India?
The current production capacity of the iPhone manufacturing unit in India is over 1 million units per month. This makes Wistron’s facility in Bangalore one of the largest iPhone manufacturing units in the world. The facility operates 24/7, with multiple production lines working in tandem to meet the growing demand for iPhones in India and other countries.
Wistron has invested heavily in setting up a state-of-the-art production facility in Bangalore, equipped with cutting-edge machinery and technology. The company has also implemented robust quality control measures to ensure that the iPhones manufactured in India meet Apple’s high standards.
Does the Indian government offer any incentives for iPhone manufacturing in India?
Yes, the Indian government offers various incentives for iPhone manufacturing in India. Under its “Make in India” initiative, the government provides tax benefits, duty exemptions, and other concessions to companies that set up manufacturing units in the country. The phased manufacturing program (PMP) also offers incentives to companies that invest in the production of mobile phones and their components.
Additionally, the Indian government has established several special economic zones (SEZs) and electronic manufacturing clusters (EMCs) that offer additional incentives, such as subsidies on land acquisition, power, and water supply. These incentives have played a significant role in convincing global brands like Apple to set up their manufacturing units in India.
What is the future of iPhone manufacturing in India?
The future of iPhone manufacturing in India looks promising, with Wistron planning to further expand its production capacity in the coming years. The company has already invested heavily in setting up a second production facility in Narasapura, Karnataka, which will increase its production capacity to over 2 million units per month.
As the Indian government continues to promote domestic manufacturing through its “Make in India” initiative, it is likely that other global brands will also set up their manufacturing units in the country. This could lead to the creation of a robust electronics manufacturing ecosystem in India, driving economic growth and job creation.