Key Takeaways
- Apple hits $4 trillion market value, becoming third Big Tech company to reach milestone
- India’s iPhone manufacturing surge contributes significantly to Apple’s global success
- iPhone 17 exports from India jump 95% following September launch
- AirPods production in India set to double by early 2026
Apple has achieved a historic $4 trillion market valuation, with India’s manufacturing expansion playing a crucial role in this milestone. The company’s shares reached a record $269.20, marking 13% growth since the September 9 iPhone launch.
India’s smartphone exports surged 60% to $13.5 billion in the first half of FY26, driven primarily by Apple’s production. The iPhone 17 launch in September triggered a remarkable 95% increase in shipments, totaling $1.8 billion in exports.
India’s Manufacturing Expansion
Foxconn and Tata-run Pegatron facilities in India are now assembling the latest iPhone models. A significant portion of this production serves rising demand in the US and Europe while also catering to India’s expanding domestic market.
Hon Hai, a Foxconn subsidiary, has accelerated operations at its Bengaluru plant, which began trial runs of Apple’s latest models in April. This facility has become India’s largest iPhone factory by production capacity, though output remains dependent on global demand.
Export Performance Soars
According to India Cellular & Electronics Association (ICEA) data, mobile phone exports reached $13.5 billion from April to September FY26, up from $8.5 billion during the same period last year. Apple’s iPhone has set new export records with the iPhone 17 launch.
The ultra-slim iPhone Air has received positive reviews, while iPhone 17 sales have outperformed the previous model by 14%, as per Counterpoint Research. Brokerage firm Evercore ISI expects strong demand to help Apple exceed quarterly forecasts.
AirPods Production Doubling
Apple’s manufacturing presence in India continues to expand, with AirPods production scheduled to double. Foxconn Interconnect Technology (FIT) is increasing capacity at its Hyderabad facility.
The Kongara Kalan plant, which began mass-producing AirPods in April 2025, currently manufactures over 100,000 pairs monthly. Production is expected to reach approximately 200,000 units within six to eight months, effectively doubling output by early 2026.
This manufacturing expansion positions India as a critical hub in Apple’s global supply chain, contributing significantly to the company’s record market valuation.
