Quick Read
- Tim Cook unveiled the iPhone 17 lineup at Apple’s ‘Awe-dropping’ event.
- The iPhone 17 Air is Apple’s thinnest phone and replaces the Plus models.
- Apple shifted iPhone 17 production to India, reducing reliance on China.
- Navya Naveli Nanda and other influencers attended the event at Apple Park.
- Apple’s diversification strategy focuses on wearables, services, and eco-friendly initiatives.
Apple CEO Tim Cook once again took center stage at the company’s annual fall event, titled the ‘Awe-dropping’ event, held on September 9, 2025, at the iconic Apple Park in Cupertino, California. The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the iPhone 17 lineup, which includes the iPhone 17, 17 Air, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max. Cook’s social media teaser on X (formerly Twitter) earlier in the day set the tone for what proved to be a landmark moment for Apple.
iPhone 17 Lineup: A Leap Forward
The new iPhone 17 series showcases Apple’s relentless drive for innovation. The standout model, the iPhone 17 Air, is the company’s thinnest smartphone to date, replacing the Plus models in the lineup. The Pro and Pro Max variants feature redesigned aesthetics, improved battery life, and Apple’s new TechWoven cases. All models will run on iOS 26, which introduces a “Liquid Glass” design, a more transparent and fluid visual experience announced earlier this year at the Worldwide Developers Conference.
Tim Cook emphasized the significance of the launch, stating, “Days like today are some of the most exciting moments at Apple.” His enthusiasm was palpable as he revealed other new products, including the AirPods Pro 3 and Apple Watch Series 11. According to Business Insider, the event’s livestream attracted millions of viewers globally, further cementing Apple’s dominance in the tech industry.
Apple’s Strategic Shift to India
One of the most significant announcements surrounding the iPhone 17 was Apple’s decision to manufacture the entire lineup in India. This marks a strategic pivot aimed at reducing Apple’s reliance on Chinese manufacturing and navigating the challenges posed by U.S.-China trade tariffs. The move follows years of planning and investment, with Apple ramping up production across five factories in India, including facilities run by Tata Group and Foxconn.
According to Bloomberg, India exported $7.5 billion worth of iPhones between April and July 2025, doubling the pace from the previous year. Despite this success, Apple still faces challenges, such as navigating tariffs imposed by the U.S. and maintaining favorable relations with both India and China. Tim Cook’s diplomatic efforts, including pledges of $600 billion in U.S. domestic initiatives, have helped Apple secure key tariff exemptions, as noted by The Observer.
A Star-Studded Event at Apple Park
The event wasn’t just about technology; it also featured cultural highlights. Among the attendees were influencers, creators, and celebrities, including Navya Naveli Nanda and singer Armaan Malik. Nanda, a social entrepreneur and the granddaughter of Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan, shared photos from her visit to Apple Park, offering glimpses of the campus’s vibrant architecture and the iconic rainbow stage. Her posts on Instagram quickly went viral, further amplifying the event’s global reach.
Cook personally interacted with the guests, reinforcing Apple’s commitment to inclusivity and community. The rainbow stage, a symbol of Apple’s cultural ethos, served as a backdrop for these interactions, reflecting the company’s blend of innovation and artistry.
What Lies Ahead for Apple
While the iPhone 17 series stole the spotlight, Apple’s broader strategy signals its ambitions beyond smartphones. The company’s diversification into wearables, services, and eco-friendly manufacturing aligns with global trends and consumer expectations. Analysts predict that Apple’s investment in India will pay dividends, not just in terms of production but also in capturing a growing market of tech-savvy consumers in the region.
As Tim Cook navigates the complexities of global trade and competition, Apple’s ability to innovate and adapt remains its greatest strength. The iPhone 17 launch is more than just a product unveiling; it’s a statement of intent from a company that continues to set the benchmark for the industry.
In summary, Apple’s ‘Awe-dropping’ event showcased its latest technological advancements and strategic moves, reaffirming its status as a global leader in innovation and manufacturing.