Apple to Begin AirPods Production in India from April, Expanding Local Manufacturing

Highlights

• Apple will start producing AirPods in April at Foxconn’s Hyderabad plant for export.
• India’s production includes iPhone exports and potential Beats headphone manufacturing.
• Apple is developing live-translation capabilities for AirPods with iOS 19.

Apple is set to begin AirPods production in India this April at Foxconn’s Hyderabad plant, primarily for export, according to reports from PTI and IANS. This marks a significant step in Apple’s efforts to expand its manufacturing base in India.

Apple’s Growing Supply Chain in India

Apple has already been exporting AirPods components from India to China and Vietnam since 2023. Now, the company is moving towards full-scale production, reinforcing India’s role in its global supply chain.

Speaking about Apple’s manufacturing presence in India during an earnings call, CEO Tim Cook said, “Our business needs certain economies of scale for it to make sense to manufacture in the country.”

He also confirmed that production in India serves both local and export markets.

Apple’s expansion in India goes beyond AirPods. Reports suggest that Foxconn is preparing to manufacture Beats headphones in the country as well. While current production is meant for export, there’s a possibility of local sales in the future, which could affect pricing and availability in the Indian market.

“Apple is making small quantities of the base AirPods models for exports to markets like the United States, Europe, and others from the Foxconn facility at Hyderabad,” an industry executive told ET.

India’s Growing Role in Apple’s Production

Apple’s iPhone exports from India have already reached Rs 1 lakh crore in the first ten months of FY25, setting a new record. This rapid growth highlights India’s increasing importance as a key manufacturing hub, driven by government incentives and a skilled workforce.

Apple’s move to diversify its production aligns with a broader trend of global companies reducing supply chain risks while leveraging India’s growing manufacturing capabilities.

AirPods To Add Translation Feature

In addition to manufacturing news, Apple is reportedly working on a live-translation feature for AirPods, expected to launch later this year alongside iOS 19. The feature will allow AirPods users to translate in-person conversations.

This feature comes after Apple introduced AirPods as hearing aids. The Cupertino giant is also rumoured to be developing future AirPods integrated with cameras and AI-driven features.

FAQs

Q1. When and where will Apple start AirPods production in India?

Answer. Apple will begin AirPods production in April at Foxconn’s Hyderabad plant, primarily for export.

Q2. What other manufacturing plans does Apple have in India?

Answer. Apart from AirPods, Apple is producing iPhones for export and may start manufacturing Beats headphones, indicating its growing reliance on India.

Q3. What new features are being developed for AirPods?

Answer. Apple is working on a live-translation feature for AirPods, expected with iOS 19, along with innovations like AI integration and camera-equipped models.

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