Change in retail laws might clear the way for Apple Stores in India

According to livemint.com, a recent change in retail laws that will allow for 100% foreign ownership of single-brands may result in Apple expanding their highly successful retail chain into India. Apple has reportedly been in discussions with the department of industrial policy and promotion for some time and is "keen" to enter the market, but not firm plans or timelines are in place.

"They have not told us how many stores they will open," the official said. "We have made the policy. The doors are now open."

Apple Stores in Indian would certainly be a boon for iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad users in the subcontinent, likely allowing them direct access to all of Apple's customer services, including the Genius Bar and One-to-One training.

Apple had no comment on the rumors.

Source: livemint.com via Fone Arena via iPhone Hacks]

Rene Ritchie is one of the most respected Apple analysts in the business, reaching a combined audience of over 40 million readers a month. His YouTube channel, Vector, has over 90 thousand subscribers and 14 million views and his podcasts, including Debug, have been downloaded over 20 million times. He also regularly co-hosts MacBreak Weekly for the TWiT network and co-hosted CES Live! and Talk Mobile. Based in Montreal, Rene is a former director of product marketing, web developer, and graphic designer. He's authored several books and appeared on numerous television and radio segments to discuss Apple and the technology industry. When not working, he likes to cook, grapple, and spend time with his friends and family.