Coming soon, iPad manufacturing will no longer be exclusively in China. For the first time, Apple will move part of the production of its tablet outside the Asian giant and will install it in Vietnam. This is clear from a report by Asian Nikkeiwhich ensures that the determination of those from Cupertino has been influenced by the impact of the most recent restrictions applied by the Chinese authorities in the face of the outbreak of COVID-19.
This does not mean that Apple stops producing the iPad in Chinese territory, but it does mean that it has begun a process of diversification in its production line. This is something that, in fact, had been rumored for a couple of years, but had been delayed by the pandemic.
There is no word yet on what percentage of iPad manufacturing will leave China for Vietnam. However, it is a first step that could symbolize a much more important change for the company led by Tim Cook. Let us not forget that currently more than 90% of Apple products are manufactured in Chinaand it is estimated that the coronavirus health lockdowns could cost it up to $8 billion in sales during the current fiscal quarter.
Vietnam’s choice to relocate iPad manufacturing is no accident. Apple already knows its technology and business landscape; in fact, some iPhone components already come from there, while the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro are also assembled in the country.
In the presentation of the financial results of the second fiscal quarter, those from Cupertino reported that iPad was the only product category that did not grow compared to the same period last year. In fact, it is the one that has generated the least income during the Q2 of 2022, where it registered 7,600 million dollars; far behind the iPhone ($50.6 billion).
Apple brings iPad to Vietnam and stockpiles supplies
Another interesting point from the report Asian Nikkei indicates that Apple’s idea to deal with disruptions in the Chinese production line is not limited to moving production of the iPad to Vietnam.
Aware that the blockades in cities like Shanghai can be transferred to the new devices that it will present in the fall, those of Cupertino have urged their suppliers to stockpile specific supplies. Among them, printed circuit boards and other components. Thus, in the event of new disruptions in their factories, the companies would have stock to continue working and minimize the negative impact.
However, nothing can be taken for granted. A few days ago, reports were published detailing that the production of the iPhone 14 It would already lead to a few weeks of delay because of the inconvenience in China. The main affected model would be the iPhone 14 Max, which would replace the Mini version, although according to Ming Chi Kuo the situation would still be under control.
For now, Apple has its sights set on the WWDC that will begin next Monday, June 6. The traditional event for developers is expected to bring important news for the iPhone such as the iPad with iOS 16 and iPadOS 16; while there is also great expectation for the possible introduction of RealityOS, the operating system for mixed reality glasses developed in Cupertino.