Apple is reportedly planning to expand its manufacturing operations in Vietnam as it moves into the smart home market and works to reduce its reliance on China. The company plans to produce several new home devices, including indoor security cameras and a smart display designed to control appliances and act as a central home hub. A more advanced tabletop robot, capable of moving with motors and sensors, is expected to follow in 2027.
This marks a shift in Apple’s approach. Traditionally, the company builds new products in China before moving production elsewhere. Now, all three new devices are set to be built in Vietnam, according to Bloomberg. Apple is partnering with Chinese company BYD, best known for electric vehicles, to handle final assembly, testing and packaging. BYD is also expected to help expand iPad production in Vietnam.
Apple already makes some iPads, AirPods, Apple Watches, Macs, and older HomePods in Vietnam. The move highlights Vietnam’s growing importance as a production hub amid rising tensions with China, trade tariffs, and supply chain risks.
Meanwhile, India is becoming a center for US-bound iPhone production, while Apple also makes certain products in Malaysia and Thailand.
The new smart home display, roughly a 7-inch square, was originally scheduled for release in March 2025, alongside a revamped Siri voice assistant. Delays in the AI software reportedly pushed the launch to spring 2026. The display is expected to come in two versions: one with a speaker base, like a HomePod mini, and a wall-mounted version. Both will likely include a FaceTime camera and adaptive software. Apple aims to price the device around $350, according to the report.
The indoor security camera, code-named J450, could be released by the end of next year. The tabletop robot, with a roughly 9-inch display, is expected in 2027.
Also read: Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold price drops by Rs 83,000 during Flipkart Big Bang Diwali sale