Confirmed: iPhone 16 series will be available in Indonesia from April 11

It took over four months but Apple has finally solved its iPhone 16 series ban in Indonesia. Cupertino confirmed that its iPhones will be available in Indonesia from Friday, April 11. This includes the iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max and the more recently launched iPhone 16e.

According to Reuters the agreed-upon investment commitment by Apple is $300 million instead of the previously reported $1 billion mark. It remains to be specified if Apple negotiated a better deal or if the $300 million is an interim figure that may increase in the following years.

So, how did we get here? Indonesia requires foreign companies to provide 40% local content to operate locally as part of the Domestic Component Level (TKDN) certification. Companies can fulfill those requirements by either manufacturing products locally, developing software locally or setting up R&D centers.

Indonesia banned the sale and use of iPhone 16 series phones back in October due to Cupertino’s unmet investment plans in the country. That event snowballed into a lengthy negotiation game where Apple continuously increased its investment commitments with reports as high as $1 billion.

The Indonesian government insisted that Apple manufacture iPhones locally to lift the ban, but it seems that request won’t be met. Instead, Apple will set up a manufacturing facility for Apple AirTag trackers and a separate factory for accessories. Cupertino is also expected to set up additional R&D centers and invest in local academies for students.

Apple iPhone 16e

Apple iPhone 16

Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max

Source