The company may initially sell the iPhone SE through its online store, and may expand its portfolio as it starts assembling other models in India
While we may have to wait a while to see Apple Stores in India, we might get to see an online version of the same by the end of the year. According to a report by Economic Times, the company is planning to sell its devices via its own online store, owing to the fact that local manufacturers can have a direct online presence in India. Apple is expected to start assembling its smartphones in India by June. The report notes that the company initially plans on selling the iPhone SE (which will be manufactured in India), and will expand its portfolio as it starts assembling other models.
Sources told the publication that Apple’s plans for an online store do not need foreign direct investment (FDI) approval in retail as the government allows manufacturers to directly sell locally manufactured models online. “Apple will initially start its online store by selling iPhone SE which will be manufactured in India and will be in line with government policies. The company is hopeful to start the online store in India around Diwali,” one of the sources said.
The report notes that Apple would not compete with other online marketplaces on price. Instead, it plans to differentiate its store in India by offering value-added services. This could include laser engraving, exclusive models and variants like dedicated models, colour options or storage space.
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