India may soon play a significant role in the development of Apple’s new products, including research, design, and testing. Apple has incorporated a wholly owned subsidiary in India, named Apple Operations India. According to a regulatory filing by the new entity, its activities will include the procurement of engineering equipment, leasing of facilities, employing engineers for hardware development, and providing failure analysis services to other group companies.
Apple Operations India’s filing also mentions that Apple Inc. has provided a letter of comfort, assuring operational and financial support to the subsidiary "for the foreseeable future." This move marks a significant step, as Apple has yet to conduct hardware design and testing in India—an initiative that would be a first for the country. Currently, Apple carries out its R&D in locations like the US, China, Germany, and Israel.
This development also represents a shift for Apple, as it sets up its first direct subsidiary in India, whereas previously its Apple India entity was under the ownership of Apple Operations International, based in Ireland. The manufacturing of Apple products in India is currently outsourced, but the new subsidiary will support third-party manufacturers and contractors by providing hardware, software, and other related services.
