By Phil Dzikiy @phildzikiy ● Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Apple has formally filed an application to open its own retail stores in India, according to India’s Economic Times. Currently, Apple sells its products in India through independent, authorized franchisee stores. A report from late 2014 claimed Apple was looking to open smaller “iOS” stores in the country, and although details are still unclear, those plans might be expanded to include full-sized Apple Stores. India recently relaxed foreign direct investment rules that should make it easier for Apple to establish stores in the country. Apple’s recently submitted proposal is currently being examined, India DIPP Secretary Amitabh Kant said.