Apple Expands Robotics in Manufacturing Across All Product Lines

Apple is intensifying its push for automation in its manufacturing processes, with plans to increase the use of robots across all its product categories, including the iPhone, Mac, Apple Watch, and iPad. This shift aims to reduce reliance on manual labor, particularly in regions like China and India where many workers are currently employed in production.

According to a report from the Taiwanese electronics publication DigiTimes, Apple is urging its manufacturers to automate their operations more extensively. The company expects its suppliers, primarily located in Asia, to take the initiative in upgrading their factories to incorporate more robotic technology, thereby decreasing the need for Apple to invest heavily in these upgrades as it has in the past.

This automation initiative is part of a broader strategy that Apple has been developing for several years. The goal was to have at least half of the assembly process for iPhones conducted by robots by the summer of 2024. However, the extent of progress towards this goal remains unclear, particularly against the backdrop of ongoing tensions in the U.S. trade environment, which have compelled Apple to find ways to cut costs while maintaining high profit margins.

The shift towards automation is expected to result in lower labor costs while simultaneously enhancing product quality and yield rates, regardless of manufacturing location. In recent years, Apple has significantly expanded its operations in India to better serve the U.S. market. However, establishing new manufacturing sites presents challenges, such as ensuring that new workers meet the quality standards of existing facilities. Increased automation can simplify this process by standardizing production methods.

Historically, Apple has not operated its own factories, with only a few production sites remaining in the U.S. and Ireland. Instead, it has closely managed its manufacturing partners, like Foxconn, Pegatron, and Tata, ensuring strict compliance with its specifications. Previously, Apple often financed the necessary machinery for its suppliers, but the new approach suggests a shift in this model.

Reports indicate that suppliers implementing the automation strategy are already experiencing declines in profits. Despite this, Apple continues to support its partners in other areas, such as achieving CO2 neutrality. The company remains committed to transforming its entire supply chain by 2030, providing investments to facilitate this transition.