Apple is set to expand its manufacturing operations in India, with reports confirming that the company will begin producing AirPods at the Foxconn facility in Hyderabad starting in April. This move is a significant step in Apple’s broader strategy to localize production while strengthening its supply chain in India.

Apple’s Growing Manufacturing Presence in India

Apple has been steadily increasing its presence in India’s manufacturing sector. In 2023, the company began exporting AirPods components from India to China and Vietnam. Now, it is set to assemble complete AirPods units within the country for export, according to reports from PTI and IANS.

Apple CEO Tim Cook, during the company’s recent earnings call, highlighted India’s strategic importance, stating that manufacturing in the country serves both domestic and export markets. He also emphasized that Apple requires economies of scale for production to be viable in a new region.

Expansion Beyond AirPods

Apple’s expansion in India is not limited to AirPods alone. Reports suggest that Foxconn is also preparing to manufacture Beats headphones in India, further strengthening the country’s role in Apple’s audio ecosystem. While initial production will be focused on exports, there is potential for local sales in the future, which could influence the pricing and availability of these products in the Indian market.

Record iPhone Exports from India

Apple’s decision to expand manufacturing in India aligns with its broader efforts to diversify its supply chain. The company’s iPhone exports from India have already reached a record high of ₹1 lakh crore in the first ten months of FY25. This growth has been fueled by government incentives, a skilled workforce, and India’s increasing role as a global manufacturing hub.

Strategic Benefits of Localized Production

By ramping up production in India, Apple aims to mitigate supply chain risks and reduce dependency on any single country. The move is part of a broader trend where global companies are shifting production to India, benefiting from the country’s growing manufacturing capabilities and business-friendly policies.

Future AirPods Features and iOS 19 Integration

In addition to expanding its production footprint, Apple is also working on significant software upgrades for AirPods. Reports indicate that the company is planning to introduce a live-translation feature for AirPods as part of a major update expected later this year, alongside the launch of iOS 19. This feature could enhance real-time communication, making AirPods even more versatile for users worldwide.

Conclusion

Apple’s decision to manufacture AirPods in India marks a major milestone for the country’s electronics manufacturing industry. With increasing investments, record exports, and future expansion plans, India is set to become an integral part of Apple’s global supply chain. As production scales up, this move could pave the way for more Apple products to be made in India, benefiting both the local economy and consumers.