Tata Electronics, a key player in manufacturing iPhone enclosures in India, has joined forces with companies in Pune and Bengaluru to advance the development of high-precision machinery crucial for producing iPhone casings. This collaboration, highlighted in an Economic Times report, aims to localize the intricate technology previously sourced from China.
The focus lies on manufacturing these “sophisticated” machines domestically, marking a significant shift from import dependence to self-sufficiency, as noted in the ET report. Ajai Chowdhry, co-founder of HCL, emphasized the potential impact, stating, “There’s a high demand for casings. If Tata Group can substitute imports by producing these machines in India, it could catalyze an industry.”
The initiative not only boosts local production but also paves the way for future exports, aligning with India’s ambitious goal of achieving a $300 billion electronics export target by 2025. Sources familiar with the matter informed ET that Tata Group is currently testing these machines in phases at their Hosur facility, aiming to expand local capabilities beyond mere assembly to nurturing a comprehensive manufacturing ecosystem within the country.
Reports suggest Tata Group is nearing a deal to acquire a majority stake in Pegatron Corp’s iPhone manufacturing facilities in India. Bloomberg reported, “Tata Group may finalize a deal to take over Pegatron Corp.’s iPhone manufacturing operations in India by May, solidifying Apple Inc.’s ties with one of India’s leading conglomerates.”
Earlier this year, Mint reported Tata Group’s advanced discussions with Taiwan’s Pegatron to establish its second iPhone manufacturing unit in Hosur City, Tamil Nadu. This move is expected to expedite Tata’s iPhone manufacturing plans and aid Apple in expanding its presence in India. Pegatron would provide technical and engineering support at the Hosur plant, according to a Reuters report.
