Apple's highly anticipated 20th anniversary iPhone models planned for 2027 will likely be manufactured in China, despite the company's broader push to shift production to India, according to industry reports.
The tech giant is preparing what insiders describe as a "major shake-up" of the iPhone lineup to commemorate two decades since the original iPhone launch. The anniversary release is expected to include a foldable iPhone model and an innovative Pro version featuring extensive use of glass in its design.
Manufacturing these specialized models presents unique challenges due to their "extraordinarily complex" nature and requirements for new production techniques, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The established manufacturing infrastructure and engineering expertise in China make it the most suitable location for producing these ambitious designs.
While Apple continues efforts to diversify its manufacturing base, with plans to assemble all U.S.-bound standard iPhones in India by late 2026, the anniversary models appear set to remain in China. The company has historically launched all major new product designs from Chinese facilities during their first production cycle.
The foldable iPhone variant is expected to feature a horizontal folding design similar to a book, with an internal display comparable to an iPad mini's dimensions. Industry speculation suggests this model could carry a premium price point exceeding $2,000.
Details about the anniversary Pro model remain limited, but early reports indicate it may showcase an all-screen design incorporating under-display camera technology. The extensive use of glass in its construction points to a dramatic departure from current iPhone designs.
The decision to manufacture these models in China could impact their final retail prices, particularly in light of current trade tensions and tariff considerations between the U.S. and China. However, the specialized manufacturing capabilities required for these innovative designs appear to outweigh other production considerations.
This strategic choice underscores the continuing importance of China's advanced manufacturing ecosystem for Apple's most technically demanding products, even as the company works to establish alternative production hubs in other regions.