CNET reports that Apple intends to make iPhones in Bengaluru, and also wishes to foster a “cutting-edge technology ecosystem” in other Indian states. CEO Tim Cook visited the country in May 2016, to glad-hand Prime Minister Narendra Modi and announce the creation of an app design and development accelerator in Bengaluru. As we already mentioned in our previous article that Apple was preparing to develop iPhones in India.
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The mass production of iPhones will be aimed at meeting India’s domestic demands, while lowering the phone’s retail price to encourage more consumers to buy the phones, said Kharge.
Everything in that part of the world hinges on Apple’s ability to put every possible cost-saving measure into the iPhone so it can compete across a much wider market in one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. Apple is only the tenth most-selling brand in the country, but things are definitely about to change with new deal.
So, finally, it is confirmed by the Karnataka government that Apple is preparing iPhones in India. On Apple News, please favorite the 1redDrop channel to get us in your news feed.
The smartphone manufacturer only has plans to set up a manufacturing plant and start assembling the 4-inch iPhone SE in Peenya, a town on the outskirts of Banglore.
Apple described its discussions with Indian officials as open and constructive. The company will definitely face the onslaught of Chinese smartphones as competition but the revised prices might give its sales the required boost.
Going by the reports, it looks like Apple is very serious about its plans for India.
Apple neither confirmed nor denied the minster’s remarks, but said last week that it has been talking to India’s government about “expanding” local operations. The Bangalore manufacturing unit could pave the way for the first Apple stores in India.
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Last January, Apple officials also held a conversation with the departments of commerce, electronics and information technology (DeITY), industrial policy and promotion (DIPP), revenue, environment and forest officials to seek a number of tax and other incentives, including the possibility of long-term duty exemptions. This is because of an Indian rule that requires foreign retailers to source at least 30% of materials for their products from India before they can sell directly.
