Exclusive: Apple Store Opening in Mumbai Next Week

Yesterday, Apple announced the opening of its first official "Apple Store" in India, called Apple BKC, located in Mumbai's Jio World Drive Mall. This new store, named after the Bandra Kurla Complex, will open on April 13 or 14, according to sources. Since Apple typically releases new products on Fridays, April 14 seems to be the more likely opening date.

Following the Mumbai store's opening, Apple plans to open its first store in New Delhi in the Select City Walk mall during the following week, although no specific date has been announced yet.

The new Apple Store in Mumbai is inspired by the city's iconic black and yellow taxis, and Apple has even released a "Hello Mumbai" wallpaper gallery for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users. Additionally, Apple has curated a special "Mumbai-inspired playlist on Apple Music, featuring both indie and commercial Indian acts.

Apple Stores are different from Apple Premium Resellers like Imagine and iWorld. These stores are fully owned and operated by Apple, with Apple Geniuses manning the Genius counters and providing legendary customer care support. Apple Stores have also become public spaces, providing customers with access to high-speed Wi-Fi and the freedom to browse and explore. Moreover, Apple hosts "Today at Apple" sessions with creators, musicians, artists, and developers at these stores.

Apple had been lobbying for FDI rules for almost a decade to launch its wholly-owned store. Although it originally planned to launch the store in 2020, COVID-19 delayed its plans.