Apple is reportedly planning to resume preparations for manufacturing iPads in India, as government tries to attract more supply chains to the country.
As per sources cited in a report by moneycontrol, the iPhone-maker might soon begin searching for a manufacturing partner. Before this, Apple had tried to partner up with China's BYD to produce iPads in India. However, the partnership came to an end due to geopolitical concerns.
“BYD was almost ready to set up the factory for iPad in India but clearance was a problem and the situation has changed significantly now. We are now trying to help (Apple) expand further to grow for the next two to three years. There will be substantial growth,” a senior official told moneycontrol. The government is also urging Apple to explore manufacturing other electronic devices like laptops and desktops in India in the upcoming years.
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Last year, after facing a roadbloc in receiving approvals for iPad manufacturing operations in India, Apple shifted its iPad product development focus to Vietnam with BYD.
This development came at a time when the tech giant is trying to boost its iPhone manufacturing capabilities massively. The company is also working on increasing the production of components for AirPod wireless charging cases through Jabil in India. Jabil Inc, an American multinational contract manufacturing company, also produces 4G and 5G equipment for Sweden's Ericsson.
“Once Apple approves it after quality testing, Jabil will ramp up commercial production of wireless charging case parts for AirPods. The ramp-up will also not just serve export requirements but will also address domestic demand once Apple finalises plans to start AirPod production in India,” as per sources cited in the report.
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Following iPhones, AirPods will become the second product category manufactured in India.
This product currently dominates the global TWS (true wireless stereo) market.
