Apple has begun shifting iPhone and MacBook repair duties in India from Wistron’s ICT Service Management to the home-grown Tata Group. Two sources told Reuters that the hand-over is under way at Tata’s vast campus in Karnataka, where the conglomerate already assembles iPhones.
Why Apple is leaning on Tata
India sits at the center of Apple’s expansion plans. The country offers a young customer base and an emerging manufacturing hub that diversifies production away from China. By moving repairs under Tata’s roof, Apple gains a partner with local know-how, end-to-end supply-chain reach, and a strong incentive to speed turnaround times for customers.
From factories to full lifecycle control
Tata’s influence has grown quickly. In 2023 the group bought Wistron’s iPhone plant, then in 2024 it took a majority stake in Pegatron’s Indian facility. It also opened a third factory in Hosur this spring. Now, with repairs joining production and franchise retail, Tata oversees almost every stage of an iPhone’s Indian journey—from assembly line to service counter.
Winners and losers
For consumers, the switch could mean faster fixes because complex jobs will travel a shorter distance between service centers and Tata’s repair hub. However, the move sidelines Wistron, once Apple’s primary Indian repair vendor. Industry analysts say Foxconn, another major supplier, may face similar pressure if Apple continues consolidating work under Tata.
Bigger stakes ahead
Apple is expected to sell a record number of devices in India this year. Therefore, any efficiencies gained now could save millions in logistics costs and boost customer satisfaction. Meanwhile, Tata’s deeper integration positions it as Apple’s go-to ally in South Asia—an advantage that may translate into more factory contracts, exclusive training programs, or even a flagship Apple Store partnership.
