Apple requests that iPhone 16 battery production be increased in India

Apple has directed suppliers to prioritize iPhone 16 battery manufacture in India, with the goal of broadening its manufacturing base and decreasing dependency on China. The technology behemoth is pushing manufacturers to open new sites and existing partners to expand operations, with TDK launching a 180-acre complex in Haryana.

Apple is expanding its manufacturing processes by shifting a large percentage of iPhone 16 battery production from China to India, ordering component makers such as Desay to set up shop there. In accordance with its plan to grow its manufacturing footprint in India, Apple is raising production capacity at its Chennai-based factory.

In keeping with Apple's aim to expand local manufacturing and assembly operations, TDK, a Japanese battery cell maker, is slated to invest 180 crore in India, creating a factory in Manesar, Haryana, to create batteries for iPhones.

Apple's choice to prioritize iPhone 16 battery manufacture in India is consistent with Prime Minister Modi's Production Linked Scheme, which promotes foreign manufacturing in India. Apple's intention to leave China is motivated by geopolitical tensions, pandemic threats, and labor market worries, with the goal of diversifying its supply chain and minimizing reliance on a single production base.

Foxconn and Tata are likely to merge TDK electric cell manufacture and Desay and Simplo battery packaging into iPhones. Apple has bought a 100% share in Wistron's India subsidiary and announced a $1.5 billion facility in India, confirming the company's commitment to building a strong manufacturing environment in the nation.

This plan allows Apple to keep battery production and iPhone assembly in-house, with key assemblers such as Foxconn and Tata likely to integrate these batteries into iPhones.

Apple's expansion of its supply chain partners in India, which includes TDK for battery production and Desay and Simplo for packaging, will significantly boost India's electronics manufacturing ecosystem, align with government initiatives such as the Production Linked Scheme, encourage foreign investment, and generate revenue.