With the iPhone 16 range, Apple expects very strong demand, partly thanks to the innovations that will be brought, but also to Apple Intelligence that will be available on the new models. The company expects a lot of iPhone renewals in addition to migrations from Android to iOS. As usual, Apple is doing everything to avoid stock shortages during the pre-order and launch phase, this is seen today at Foxconn which has requested spectacular reinforcement to manage Apple’s very numerous orders!
Foxconn calls for reinforcements for iPhone 16 production
Production of the iPhone 16 is currently in full swing at Foxconn’s partner factories, reaching its maximum level in preparation for the expected launch in September. Apple has, as usual, anticipated the ramp-up of production to ensure immediate global availability of its new devices. In order to meet this growing demand, Foxconn, the main iPhone assembler, has carried out a massive recruitment of 50,000 additional employees at its largest assembly plant located in Zhengzhou, China.
The Zhengzhou plant, often dubbed “iPhone City,” produces about 80 percent of the iPhones sold worldwide. The manufacturing facility is so large that it’s comparable to a small city with its own infrastructure and services. The industrial complex is critical to Apple, which is counting on its ability to mass-produce the millions of iPhones needed to meet global demand.
Wage and bonus increases to attract workers
To attract the tens of thousands of workers needed and avoid labor unrest, Foxconn implemented a financial incentive policy from early summer. The company increased base wages and offered attractive bonuses to lure workers.
Production at its peak until the end of the year
Foxconn’s peak production period is between August and December, with factories running at full capacity to meet pre-order, launch, and holiday orders. Apple expects particularly strong demand this year, largely due to new AI features that will be integrated into all iPhone 16 models. For this reason, the company has asked its suppliers, including Foxconn, to increase production by 10% compared to the previous year, setting an ambitious target of 90 million units produced.