Apple is giving India a front-row seat in its global manufacturing game as Foxconn quietly kicks off trial production of the iPhone 17. 
According to a new report from The Economic Times, Foxconn’s Indian facilities have started receiving key components imported from China as early as June, including display assemblies, rear camera units, and mechanical housings for the iPhone 17 lineup.
This move signifies the beginning of full-scale trial production, though only about 10% of Foxconn’s June imports were for the iPhone 17. The bulk of the shipments-around 90%-were allocated to ongoing iPhone 14 and iPhone 16 production, which Apple expects to sell heavily during India’s festive season in August.
Sources close to the supply chain suggest that full-scale trial runs might already be underway this July, with mass production scheduled to begin next month. If everything stays on track, the iPhone 17 series could be launched in the week starting September 8, with units potentially coming directly from India shortly thereafter.
Meanwhile, Foxconn is expanding its manufacturing footprint even further within India. The tech giant is reportedly preparing to launch a new facility in Oragadam, Tamil Nadu, aimed at producing iPhone enclosures. Additionally, a massive $2.6 billion plant in Bengaluru is expected to handle the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16e models.
This growing shift signals Apple’s intent to reduce its dependency on Chinese production while positioning India as a key player in its global supply chain. If successful, this strategy could accelerate timelines and increase Apple’s resilience in the face of global disruptions.
With India now playing a starring role in iPhone development, the country’s tech ecosystem stands to benefit enormously from Apple’s long-term commitment. Fans can expect more Made-in-India iPhones sooner than ever before.