Apple supplier Foxconn in talks to assemble iPad at its Tamil Nadu plant: Report

Apple supplier Foxconn appears to be considering expanding its operations in India. The Taiwan-based company is reportedly evaluating plans to assemble iPads in the country. So far, Foxconn and Apple’s other contract manufacturers in India have only assembled iPhone models. The latest iPhone 15 series was assembled at Foxconn’s Chennai factory. In recent years Foxconn has rapidly expanded its presence in India by investing in manufacturing facilities in the southern states.

Foxconn is evaluating plans to assemble iPads in India

An Economic Times report citing unnamed sources said Foxconn is looking to start assembling iPad units at its Sriperumbudur facility on the outskirts of Chennai in Tamil Nadu. Reportedly a few rounds of discussions have already taken place with the government. The report quoted the source as saying, “They’ve had a great experience so far, and they’re coming in full force. They’ll be doubling what they have over the next few years, which will include iPhones, iPads and a few more.” Products are also included.”

Production of Apple’s flagship tablets is expected to be possible in India as the capabilities required for tablet production are similar to smartphone assembly. Assembly of Apple’s MacBook range of laptops can take longer due to their low production volumes.

Foxconn is also expected to benefit from India’s production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme as it increases its investment in India.

Apple’s plan to broaden the portfolio of products assembled in India is in line with the company’s efforts to make more devices outside China. Apple moved a portion of its iPad development to Vietnam last year. It will reportedly start looking for a manufacturing partner in India to make iPad models in the country. The company is also said to be considering expanding production of components for the AirPods wireless charging case in India through Jabil. Pegatron and Tata Electronics are major suppliers of Apple in India.