Tata Electronics Begins iPhone 16 Assembly at Hosur Plant, Eyes Major Role in Apple’s Global Supply Chain

Tata Electronics has embarked on assembling iPhone models, including the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16e, at its Hosur facility. This strategic move could position Tata as a significant player in the smartphone supply chain, traditionally dominated by Taiwanese companies like Foxconn. The electronics division of the Tata Group has inaugurated a new unit at this facility to commence mobile phone assembly.

Previously, Tata Electronics was involved in assembly operations at their Wistron facility in Karnataka. Recently, they initiated assembly at a new plant within their Hosur campus. This plant currently operates two lines and plans to expand to at least four more lines soon. Each line can employ over 2,500 individuals due to its comprehensive assembly process.

Expansion and Strategic Moves

The new assembly unit in Hosur is expected to surpass the scale of operations at the Wistron plant once it reaches full capacity. Tata Electronics has been expanding rapidly, acquiring Indian divisions of other Apple suppliers like Wistron and Pegatron. Queries sent to Apple and Tata Electronics were unanswered as of Monday.

According to Tarun Pathak, research director at Counterpoint Research, "For Tata Electronics, getting into full-scale assembly can be a strategic step as it provides a springboard for opportunities to tie up with other supply chain companies and is critical to add more value addition in the country." This development is also advantageous for Apple.

Impact on Apple's Strategy

Prabhu Ram from CyberMedia Research noted that Apple's strategy benefits from this development. "For Apple, which has been nudging its suppliers to diversify beyond China, this strengthens its India play," he said. With Foxconn and Tata Electronics scaling rapidly and gaining operational maturity, Apple can better manage supply chain risks while boosting production for both export and domestic markets.

As Apple aims to expand its presence in India and lessen dependence on China, having two robust suppliers will be crucial for growth. "As Tata Electronics deepens its engagement with Apple, it is well-positioned to build credibility and scale within the global electronics value chain-marking a pivotal step toward establishing itself as a competitive, end-to-end manufacturing partner," Ram added.

Production Scaling Efforts

Tata Electronics has been swiftly increasing its production of enclosures for Apple's iPhones at its Hosur unit. On May 12, ET reported that the company aimed to double its existing capacity of approximately 50,000 enclosures. Before a fire incident last September halted expansion efforts temporarily, they had achieved around 50,000 enclosures capacity.

This expansion aligns with Apple's broader strategy of diversifying its supply chain beyond China. The presence of mature suppliers like Foxconn and Tata Electronics is instrumental in supporting Apple's growth ambitions in India while mitigating potential risks associated with over-reliance on one region.