After four months, Apple has resolved its ban on the iPhone 16 series in Indonesia, with sales starting on April 11. The company committed to invest $300 million, significantly lower than earlier reports of $1 billion. Indonesia’s regulations require foreign firms to have 40% local content to operate, which Apple has not fully met. Instead of local iPhone manufacturing, Apple will establish a facility for AirTag trackers and factories for accessories, along with R&D centers and investments in local educational programs. This agreement follows the October ban due to Apple’s unmet investment commitments.
After more than four months of discussions, Apple has successfully resolved the ban on its iPhone 16 series in Indonesia. The tech giant announced that the iPhones will be available in Indonesia starting Friday, April 11. This range includes the iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, and the newly launched iPhone 16e.
As reported by Reuters, Apple’s investment commitment has been set at $300 million, which is a revision from the earlier figure of $1 billion. It is still unclear whether this signifies a better deal for Apple or if the $300 million figure is just a temporary amount that could increase in the future.
So what led to this resolution? Indonesia mandates foreign companies to include 40% local content to operate in the country under the Domestic Component Level (TKDN) certification. Companies can meet these criteria by either manufacturing locally, developing software, or establishing R&D centers.
Back in October, Indonesia prohibited the sale and use of the iPhone 16 series due to Apple’s failure to meet its investment goals in the region. This situation led to prolonged negotiations, with Apple gradually raising its investment pledges, reaching figures as high as $1 billion in some reports.
The Indonesian authorities demanded that Apple manufacture iPhones locally to lift the ban; however, it appears that this request will not be fulfilled. Instead, Apple is planning to establish a manufacturing facility for AirTag trackers and another factory for accessories. The company is also expected to create more R&D centers and invest in local educational institutions for students.
Apple iPhone 16e
Apple iPhone 16
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max
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