Apple Inc. is set to expand its manufacturing footprint by starting AirPods production in India at the Foxconn plant near Hyderabad, Telangana, beginning April 2025. This marks a significant milestone, as AirPods will become the second major Apple product to be assembled in India, following the iPhone. The move highlights Apple’s strategy to diversify its supply chain and reduce reliance on China amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Manufacturing and Export Strategy
The Hyderabad facility has already conducted trial production of AirPods, with full-scale manufacturing expected to ramp up swiftly. Initially, the production will focus on exports, but there is potential for local sales in the future, which could impact domestic pricing and availability. Apple’s CEO Tim Cook emphasized that manufacturing in India serves both domestic and export markets, leveraging economies of scale.
India’s Growing Role in Apple’s Supply Chain
India has become a critical hub for Apple’s global operations, driven by government incentives and a skilled workforce. The Indian government’s subsidies for manufacturing wireless earphones and smartwatches have played a key role in attracting Apple’s production facilities. Additionally, Apple’s iPhone exports from India reached ₹1 lakh crore in FY25, showcasing the country’s growing importance as a manufacturing base.
Expansion Beyond AirPods
Foxconn is reportedly preparing to manufacture Beats headphones alongside AirPods, further strengthening India’s role in Apple’s audio product ecosystem. The company is also exploring opportunities to manufacture iPads and MacBooks locally as part of its broader diversification strategy.
Future Innovations
Apple is expected to introduce a live-translation feature for AirPods later this year as part of a major software update alongside iOS 19. This innovation aligns with Apple’s commitment to enhancing its product offerings globally.
Apple’s decision to ramp up production in India reflects a broader trend among global tech companies seeking to mitigate supply chain risks while capitalizing on India’s burgeoning manufacturing capabilities.