Samsung Outpaces Apple in Made-in-India Smartphone Production

Samsung has taken the lead over Apple in manufacturing smartphones in India, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to the “Make in India” initiative. As global tech giants scale their local operations to tap into India’s massive market and favorable production-linked incentives (PLI), Samsung has emerged as the frontrunner in locally assembled smartphone volumes.

According to industry insiders and recent production data, Samsung has produced more smartphones in India than Apple over the past year. While Apple has significantly ramped up local iPhone assembly through partners like Foxconn, Pegatron, and Wistron (now owned by Tata), the numbers still trail behind Samsung’s massive output. Samsung has been manufacturing phones in India for over a decade and operates the world’s largest mobile manufacturing facility in Noida, Uttar Pradesh.

The company’s wide portfolio—ranging from budget Galaxy M and A series to flagship Galaxy S and Z models—has given it an edge in volume-driven production. This aligns with Samsung’s strategy to dominate both premium and mid-tier smartphone segments in India and neighboring markets, many of which are served via exports from India.

Meanwhile, Apple has focused primarily on premium models like the iPhone 13, 14, and 15, targeting export markets alongside India. Though Apple is quickly narrowing the gap, with nearly 14% of global iPhone production now taking place in India, its scale is still catching up to Samsung's head start.

The Indian government’s PLI scheme has been instrumental in encouraging both companies to scale their local operations. Analysts believe that as Apple continues to localize more components and expand its supplier base, the gap may shrink further.

However, for now, Samsung holds the crown as the top ‘Made in India’ smartphone producer, giving it a strong foothold in the subcontinent’s booming digital economy and supply chain ecosystem.