Apple is producing all iPhone 17 models in India for the first time, signaling a major shift in its global manufacturing strategy.
TLDR:
- Apple is assembling all four iPhone 17 models in India across five factories.
- For the first time, iPhones made in India will be shipped to the US from day one.
- Foxconn and Tata Group are leading the production, expanding India’s role in Apple’s supply chain.
- The iPhone 17 series is expected to launch globally on September 9, with pre-orders opening September 12.
What Happened?
Apple has kicked off production of the upcoming iPhone 17 in India, including the premium Pro models, across multiple new and existing facilities. This marks the first time Apple will export all models of a new iPhone series from India for global and US launch, a move aimed at reducing dependency on China.
Apple’s Big Shift to India
Apple’s decision to manufacture its entire iPhone 17 lineup in India highlights a major change in its global supply strategy. Production is underway at five sites, including:
- Foxconn’s new plant in Devanahalli, Bengaluru
- Foxconn’s existing unit in Chennai
- Tata Group’s plant in Hosur, Tamil Nadu
- The former Wistron facility in Karnataka, now owned by Tata
- Pegatron’s Chennai factory, also under Tata’s control
This aggressive expansion comes as Apple responds to ongoing tariff uncertainties and geopolitical tensions, particularly with China and the United States.
🚨 Foxconn’s Bengaluru plant has started producing iPhone 17.
— Indian Tech & Infra (@IndianTechGuide) August 18, 2025
The plant is the company’s second-largest manufacturing unit outside China, was set up with an investment of $2.8 billion and is located in Devanahalli near Bengaluru, Karnataka. pic.twitter.com/qz6Xx1LCKN
Record Growth in iPhone Exports From India
The numbers back up Apple’s confidence in India:
- In just four months since April 2025, India exported $7.5 billion worth of iPhones
- In the previous full year, exports stood at $17 billion
- Foxconn alone shipped $4.4 billion in iPhones to the US in the first five months of this year
- India’s share of iPhones imported by the US has jumped to 44 percent, up from just 11 percent in 2024
- At the same time, China’s share dropped to 25 percent, down from 82 percent the year before
Tata’s Growing Role
Tata Group is emerging as Apple’s key Indian partner, handling a growing share of production:
- Tata bought Wistron’s plant in Karnataka in 2023
- Tata also owns a controlling stake in Pegatron’s Chennai unit
- The company is expected to handle up to 50 percent of all iPhone production in India over the next two years
This partnership is part of Apple’s broader effort to diversify its manufacturing beyond traditional players like Foxconn.
iPhone 17 Launch and Expected Pricing
Apple is set to reveal the iPhone 17 lineup at its September event, expected to be announced on August 26. Key dates:
- Launch event: September 9
- Pre-orders: September 12
- In-store availability: September 19
- iOS 26 rollout: September 16 for existing models
The new iPhones are expected to launch in four models: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max. While prices are yet to be confirmed, early estimates suggest:
- iPhone 17 may start around Rs 79,999
- iPhone 17 Air at Rs 89,999
- Pro models likely to be priced higher due to production costs and US tariffs
What Else to Expect?
Apple’s September event is expected to feature more than just iPhones. Also on the list:
- Apple Watch Series 11
- Watch Ultra 3
- New AirPods Pro
- Upgraded Apple TV 4K
- Possibly the third-gen HomePod
A separate October event is rumored for Mac and iPad launches powered by the upcoming M5 chip.
What TechKV Thinks?
I think this is a massive win for India’s tech ecosystem. Apple going all-in on Indian manufacturing for a global flagship product like the iPhone 17 is a real sign of trust. For years, India was just a low-volume assembly base. Now it’s front and center. It is not just about labor costs anymore. This is about scale, capability and reliability. I’m especially interested in how Tata is emerging as a genuine heavyweight in global electronics. If this pace continues, India could become the default iPhone factory within a couple of years.
