iPhone 16 Pro will be assembled in India, leak reveals
A leaked image of a purported iPhone 16 Pro retail box has surfaced online, supporting previous reports of the device's assembly in India. The image, shared on Chinese social media platform Weibo, showcases a label with the product name "iPhone 16 Pro" and a line that reads "Assembled in India." This marks a significant shift for Apple, as historically, only non-Pro iPhone models have been assembled in India.
Additional iPhone 16 Pro details
The leaker has no proven track record but has shared several key details about the upcoming iPhone 16 series. In addition to the assembly location, the Chinese tipster also revealed a potential Rose Gold color option for the iPhone 16 Pro models. However, recent leaks suggest a unique brownish color option may replace this rumored Rose finish.
Indian assembly marks milestone for Apple and India
The assembly of iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max in India is a significant milestone for both Apple and India's manufacturing sector. This development is believed to be part of Apple's new product introduction (NPI) process, a multi-step plan that takes a product from ideation to final production. Until now, a Pro iPhone model has never been assembled in India.
Foxconn prepares for iPhone 16 Pro production in India
Foxconn, Apple's manufacturing partner, has reportedly begun training thousands of workers at its factory in Tamil Nadu, a southern Indian state. This intensive training is aimed at ensuring the iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max are ready for their global launch, expected to occur in September. Other Apple partners in India like Pegatron and Tata-owned Wistron are also speculated to start production of the iPhone 16 Pro models later.
Potential impact on iPhone Pro pricing in India
The assembly of iPhone 16 Pro models in India could potentially influence their pricing in the country. Historically, iPhone Pro models have been more expensive in India compared to other countries such as Japan, the UAE, and the US. The move to assemble these models locally could lead to a price adjustment, although no official confirmation has been provided yet.
