Apple set to ramp up AirPods production in India

Apple is continuing to expand its manufacturing footprint beyond China, with a new report revealing that Foxconn will significantly increase AirPods production at its Hyderabad facility in India.

Foxconn to double AirPods output in Hyderabad

According to The Economic Times, Foxconn is planning to double monthly production of the latest AirPods models to around 200,000 units, up from the current 100,000. This expansion will come through upgrades to five existing assembly lines dedicated to AirPods manufacturing.

The company is also preparing to grow its workforce from roughly 2,000 employees to around 5,000 as part of the expansion. Foxconn’s total investment in this project will reach ₹48 billion, including ₹30 billion already spent, with some of the new machinery being transferred from its Vietnam operations.

Part of Apple’s broader shift away from China

Apple’s move aligns with its long-term strategy to diversify production across multiple countries. Recently, Apple began producing the Vision Pro headset in Vietnam and has been steadily ramping up iPhone assembly in India.

The increased AirPods production will supply markets in India, the US, and Europe, benefiting from India’s favorable export terms — including tariff exemptions for electronics shipped to the US.

Expanding global manufacturing presence

In addition to India and Vietnam, Apple has been investing heavily in US manufacturing. The company recently announced a $600 billion investment plan over four years and launched the American Manufacturing Program, which includes moving iPhone and Apple Watch cover glass production to the US.

With these efforts, Apple continues to reduce its reliance on China and strengthen its global supply chain by spreading production across India, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand.