Apple Accelerates AirPods Production in India with Major Foxconn Expansion

Foxconn is significantly increasing its AirPods manufacturing in India. The company plans to double monthly output at its Hyderabad facility. This expansion is a key part of Apple’s broader strategy to diversify its supply chain beyond China.

According to a report from the Economic Times, this move will more than double the plant’s workforce. Production began at this site in April following the relocation of equipment from Vietnam. The expansion underscores India’s growing role in global electronics manufacturing.

Doubling Output and Workforce in Hyderabad

The Kongara Kalan plant will boost its capacity from over 100,000 units per month to 200,000. This will be achieved by overhauling five existing assembly lines. New machinery is being transferred from Foxconn’s operations in Vietnam to support this growth.

The workforce is expected to jump from around 2,000 employees to approximately 5,000. This hiring surge is projected to happen within the next six to eight months. The plant currently assembles the latest AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 3 models.

A Strategic Shift in Global Manufacturing

This expansion solidifies India’s position as a critical hub for Apple. The company is actively reducing its manufacturing reliance on a single region. This strategy helps mitigate risks, such as the rare earth metal shortage that impacted production in July.

The increased local production also aligns with Indian government initiatives. Reuters has noted Apple’s growing commitment to the Indian market through its manufacturing partners. This benefits Apple’s market access and supports local job creation and economic development.

This major expansion of AirPods production in India marks a pivotal step in Apple’s global supply chain evolution, signaling a long-term commitment to its manufacturing footprint in the country.

Info at your fingertips

Which AirPods models are made in India?

The Foxconn facility in Hyderabad currently assembles the AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 3. These are the latest standard and pro models available to consumers.

Why is Apple expanding production in India?

Apple is diversifying its supply chain to reduce its dependency on China. This move also helps the company tap into the large Indian market and benefit from government incentives for local manufacturing.

How many jobs will this expansion create?

The workforce at the Hyderabad plant is expected to grow from 2,000 to about 5,000 employees. This increase is planned for the next six to eight months.

Has Apple faced any production issues recently?

Yes, a shortage of the rare earth metal dysprosium from China temporarily constrained AirPods production in July. This incident highlights the risks of a concentrated supply chain.

How does this compare to Apple’s production in China?

While China remains a massive production base, India is becoming a major alternative. The scale in India is growing rapidly but has not yet reached China’s level for most Apple products.

Trusted Sources

Economic Times, Reuters