Apple CEO Tim Cook will be meeting with the heads of India's major cellular carriers in an effort to build partnerships and perhaps open up new device distribution avenues. The meetings are taking place as India's telecom companies are beginning to roll out high-speed 4G networks, which Apple apparently sees as a potential boost for the iPhone in the country.
From The Economic Times:
A senior Bharti Airtel executive said the telco was in talks with Apple for a broader strategic tieup, which may include options such as distribution or selling through retail stores, offers on devices and even training of personnel. The companies will pick what works bets for India out of several proposals, he said without giving details.
Apple reportedly hopes that the 4G rollout, and the boost in iPhone sales that Apple hopes it will bring, will also increase sales of other Apple products in India, including the iPad and Apple TV. Bharti Airtel, Vodafone India, and Idea Cellular will be extending their 4G networks throughout the country this year, while Reliance Jio is expected to launch its high-speed network this year as well.
