Apple has announced that its latest addition to the iPhone 16 series, the iPhone 16e, will be assembled in India. This move aligns with the company’s ongoing strategy of increasing local production, not just for Indian consumers but also for export to select international markets. The iPhone 16 lineup now includes five models: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, and the newly introduced iPhone 16e.
Apple confirmed that the entire iPhone 16 series, including the iPhone 16e, will be produced in India and available for purchase through Apple Retail stores, the Apple Store app, and authorised sellers starting February 28.
Apple has been assembling iPhones in India since 2017, starting with the first-generation iPhone SE. Over the years, local production has expanded to include models like the iPhone 12, iPhone 13, iPhone 14, and more recently, the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus. The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus are also produced in India, but the company took a significant step forward by manufacturing Pro variants — iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max — in the country for the first time.
Initially, Apple’s India-based production focused on older and entry-level models, while higher-end versions were imported. However, this has changed over time, with newer models being assembled locally from their launch phase itself. The shift is part of Apple’s broader strategy to reduce reliance on China and have India contribute up to 25 per cent of its total iPhone production in the next few years.
Alongside its manufacturing push, Apple has been steadily growing its retail presence in India. After opening its first two company-operated stores in Mumbai and Delhi in 2023, Apple CEO Tim Cook confirmed in late 2024 that four more stores are set to open. These new outlets will be located in Bengaluru, Pune, the Delhi-NCR region, and another in Mumbai.
Further strengthening its Indian market presence, Apple recently launched the Apple Store app in India. While available in other countries for years, the app was introduced to Indian consumers only last month. It aims to provide a seamless shopping experience, complementing the company’s physical stores, authorised resellers, and third-party retailers.
The newly launched iPhone 16e comes with a starting price of Rs 59,900 for the 128GB variant. Pre-orders for the device will begin on February 21, with deliveries and official sales starting on February 28. With Apple ramping up local manufacturing and expanding its retail footprint, its commitment to the Indian market continues to grow stronger.
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Apple assembling iPhone 16e in Indian factories for both domestic market and exports
