Apple begins iPhone 18 Pro production in India; Pro Max assembled there from start of cycle, 'Made in India' to sell globally since first sale

Apple has initiated production of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in India, ahead of their anticipated September launch. This marks a significant change, as the Pro Max is being assembled in India from the start of its production cycle, unlike previous models.²

A substantial share of these India-made units is expected to be exported to international markets, particularly the US and Europe. Apple's manufacturing network in India now comprises five facilities across Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, with Foxconn being the largest manufacturing partner by volume, operating key facilities in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, and near Bengaluru airport.⁴

Additionally, Tata Electronics has emerged as a major partner, with its facility in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, accounting for around one-third of India's iPhone output. Foxconn has already commenced mass production for the iPhone 18 Pro models, with output expected to ramp up in response to demand and pre-orders from India, the US, and parts of Europe.

During the five-year Production-Linked Incentive period from FY2021-22 to FY26, iPhones assembled by Tata for export were valued at $26.3 billion, compared to $25.6 billion for Foxconn. India's share of global iPhone production is projected to reach around 26% in 2026, up from 6% in 2022, according to Counterpoint Research. With the iPhone 18 Pro Max, India is solidifying its status as a production hub for Apple's premium smartphones sold worldwide.⁶