Apple will manufacture all four models of its upcoming iPhone 17 series in India, marking a significant shift in its global production strategy.
According to a Bloomberg report, the American technology giant will begin assembling the devices in India a month before the official unveiling of the new iPhones, expected in September 2025. It will be the first time in Apple’s history that the entire iPhone lineup is produced outside China before launch.
The iPhone 17 range is likely to include the standard iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max, with industry sources suggesting the addition of a new, slimmer premium variant, possibly branded as iPhone Air. While Apple traditionally announces its flagship phones in early September, the company has not yet disclosed an exact date for the launch.
Production shift to India
Apple has been gradually diversifying its supply chain away from China, particularly after tariffs on Chinese exports were introduced under former US President Donald Trump. The company has expanded operations in India over the past few years, working with contract manufacturers across five factories in New Delhi and recently opening two additional sites.
Analysts see the decision as both a supply chain resilience strategy and a nod to India’s growing role as a global technology manufacturing hub. India has offered incentives to attract electronics producers, while Apple has steadily increased its investment in the region.
The new move means customers in India could see faster availability of iPhones than in previous years, when models were often delayed compared to markets like the US or Europe.
Growing market presence
Apple has made notable inroads into India’s consumer electronics market, with rising iPhone sales and the recent opening of its first two official Apple retail stores in Mumbai and Delhi.
Technology experts say producing the entire iPhone 17 lineup in India signals Apple’s long-term confidence in the country as both a manufacturing base and a key consumer market.
“The decision reflects Apple’s strategy to reduce dependence on China while strengthening its position in one of the fastest-growing smartphone markets,” said one industry analyst.
What’s next
Although specific details remain unconfirmed, the iPhone 17 series is expected to feature design refinements, performance upgrades, and a stronger focus on slimmer and premium models.
For now, the expansion of production in India marks a milestone for Apple as it rebalances its supply chain — and potentially reshapes the global smartphone market in the process.
