This article originally appeared on ABACUS V eteran analyst Ming-Chi Kuo projects that Chinese company BYD will assemble significantly more iPad and iPod Touch devices in 2020. While BYD may be known as an electric carmaker, the Warren Buffett-backed company is also expected to assemble 10-20% of iPads, if not more, possibly starting this year. Kuo of TF International Securities also expects BYD to become the sole assembler of the iPod Touch this year, replacing Taiwanese company Quanta. While the iPod Touch isn’t as big as it used to be, the report notes that it’d be the first time BYD is assembling a handheld device for Apple, signifying a tighter partnership. But Kuo says that it will take BYD at least 5 to 6 years before the company may be able to assemble the iPhone. Apple’s iPhones are now being assembled by Taiwanese company Foxconn, mostly in China, although the company has recently started assembling the iPhone XR in India . We have reached out to Apple for confirmation and will update the story if we hear back. Purchase the China AI Report 2020 brought to you by SCMP Research and enjoy a 20% discount (original price US$400). This 60-page all new intelligence report gives you first-hand insights and analysis into the latest industry developments and intelligence about China AI. Get exclusive access to our webinars for continuous learning, and interact with China AI executives in live Q&A. Offer valid until 31 March 2020.
