Apple's latest models, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16e, are now being assembled by Tata Electronics at its plant in Tamil Nadu. Apple's new plant is a significant step toward reducing its dependency on Chinese factories. It also shows that Tata is playing an increasing part in the global supply of smartphones, which in the past was mainly led by companies like Foxconn from Taiwan.
According to industry workers, the original project in Hosur consisted only of phone cases made for the iPhone. There are mobile assembly lines inside the Tata plant that people won't easily forget. They are part of Foxconn's setup and aid assembly at its Karnataka plant, which it purchased as part of its plan to broaden electronic manufacturing.
According to sources familiar with the news, Tata Electronics installed the assembly lines some months ago and operates two active lines today. Plans are being made to bring the number up to six in the near term. It takes at least 2,500 workers to operate each assembly line, which demonstrates the broad operations and workforce support needed.
Wistron's manufacturing in Hosur will produce more phones than it ever did in Bengaluru. The increase in space means that Tata is gaining power in the electronics sector and that Apple values India for its part in global manufacturing. Tata now manages Indian operations for Apple suppliers Pegatron and Wistron, improving its place in the supply chain.
Apple is moving away from China because of risks in international politics and issues in the supply chain. Thanks to an abundant skilled workforce and government support, India is a key spot for Apple in manufacturing. Tata has made a move that fits Apple's goals and reveals more belief in Indian production skills. According to experts, this advance could weaken Foxconn's strong position and give Apple additional flexibility in managing its supply chain.
Tata Electronics is seen as a key partner for Apple, which could expand the company's role by asking it to assemble future iPhones and boost its export trade. It also helps India achieve its goal of becoming a top center for electronics manufacturing. Mobile production companies like Tata are expanding their business in India, accelerating the government's 'Make in India' mission to create more jobs and encourage significant manufacturing investment.