According to the Times of India, Apple has finalized plans to start manufacturing its AirPods wireless earphones in India beginning in 2025. This move had been anticipated for several months. Production is expected to begin with the 4th generation AirPods, which will serve as Apple’s new entry-level model. While Apple already relies on manufacturing partners in India for a large portion of its global iPhone shipments, the company has been considering expanding its production to include iPads, MacBooks, and AirPods as part of its strategy to diversify its global supply chain.

The report, citing unnamed sources, indicates that Jabil will manufacture AirPods casings near Pune, while Foxconn will handle final assembly at its Telangana plant. Although it is not confirmed which specific models will be produced in India, the standard AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Noise Cancellation are the most likely candidates, rather than the AirPods Pro or AirPods Max.

The report further states that the majority of AirPods produced in India will likely be aimed at export markets, as global demand remains strong, while the domestic market, though growing, represents only a small portion of global sales. In 2023, Apple sold 75 million pairs of AirPods, down from a peak of 114 million in 2020, according to Statista. In India, the true wireless stereo (TWS) audio market is largely dominated by local brands offering more affordable options.