Apple has officially confirmed a reduction in iPhone 14 Pro models’ production at Foxconn’s factory in Zhengzhou, China which is going to increase their delivery time. The press release is issued for investors and customers right before the start of the 2022 Holiday season.
After reporting iPhone’s record revenue of $42.6 billion in Q4, 2022, Foxconn’s iPhone City in the Chinese province of Zhengzhou, the largest assembling unit in the world, faced a COVID-19 breakout within the facility.
It was reported that initially the facility was operating under a closed-loop management system but when workers allegedly escape the premises to avoid strict living conditions at the plants, the local authorities put the factory under a week-long lockdown.
China’s zero-COVID-19 policy adversely impacts iPhone 14 Pro models supply
Although Apple is manufacturing the standard iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus models in India, Foxconn’s factory in Zhengzhou exclusively manufactures iPhone 14 Pro models in China. As the country has a strict zero-COVID-19 policy, the restrictions have adversely impacted iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max supply.
Apple’s press release states:
COVID-19 restrictions have temporarily impacted the primary iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max assembly facility located in Zhengzhou, China. The facility is currently operating at significantly reduced capacity. As we have done throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we are prioritizing the health and safety of the workers in our supply chain.
We continue to see strong demand for iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max models. However, we now expect lower iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max shipments than we previously anticipated and customers will experience longer wait times to receive their new products.
We are working closely with our supplier to return to normal production levels while ensuring the health and safety of every worker.
Previously, it was reported that Foxconn had begun iPhone 14 Pro models production at its facility in Shanghai. Maybe, it is production volume was not enough to cover smartphones demand for this Holiday season and that’s why Apple warned the consumers and investors in time.
Since their launch in September, iPhone 14 Pro models have had strong demand in spite of costing more than standard iPhone 14 models. The latest Pro lineup offers distinctive new features like an advanced A16 processor, Always-On display, Dynamic Island, 48 MP camera, and larger battery which have impressed the consumers to open up their wallets even during volatile economic conditions.
