Foxconn Commences iPhone 17 Production in Bengaluru

Foxconn has initiated operations at its newly established facility in Devanahalli, Bengaluru, starting with the small-scale production of the iPhone 17. This facility stands as the company’s second-largest outside of China, established with an investment of USD 2.8 billion (approximately ₹25,000 crore).

Initial Setbacks and Recovery

The factory encountered an early challenge when numerous Chinese engineers abruptly returned home, momentarily halting production efforts. Nevertheless, Foxconn managed to recruit specialists from Taiwan and other areas to fill the void and successfully resume operations.

Local Government Response

M B Patil, Karnataka’s Minister for Commerce and Industries, expressed enthusiasm about the development. He mentioned that Foxconn has officially started production of the latest iPhone 17 at its newly constructed manufacturing site in Bengaluru. This facility, being Foxconn’s second-largest outside China, represents a substantial investment of $2.8 billion (₹25,000 crore).

He noted that this achievement signifies more than just smartphone assembly; it highlights Karnataka’s rise as an essential centre for electronics manufacturing, facilitating job creation, enhancing supply chains, and bolstering India’s aspirations for exports. With Apple rapidly increasing its production in India, Bengaluru is set to become a crucial player in establishing India as the iPhone capital globally. Despite the initial hurdles, Foxconn’s operations remain on track, reinforcing investor confidence in Karnataka’s strong ecosystem.

Bengaluru’s Role in iPhone Production

The announcement was shared via social media, showcasing the significance of Bengaluru on the global iPhone production map. Foxconn’s entry into the region is a pivotal step in Apple’s expanding footprint within India.

Apple’s Production Goals in India

Apple is significantly scaling up its iPhone production within India. Reports indicate that the company aims to manufacture 60 million units this year, an increase from the 35-40 million range in 2024-25. For the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, Apple saw a 60 per cent increase in iPhone assembly in India, valued at around USD 22 billion.

CEO’s Remarks

Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, has noted the increasing significance of India in the company’s global supply chain during a recent earnings call. He mentioned that a substantial portion of iPhones sold in the U.S. during June 2025 was produced in India. Cook confirmed that all iPhones sold in the U.S. during that quarter were dispatched from factories in India.

Performance of Apple in India

Apple’s market performance in India has demonstrated robust growth. iPhone shipments within the nation surged by 21.5 per cent year-on-year, reaching 5.9 million units in the first half of 2025, with the iPhone 16 leading in sales. In the June quarter, Apple experienced a 19.7 per cent increase in iPhone shipments, securing a 7.5 per cent market share in the Indian smartphone sector, according to the latest IDC data.