Apple's distributors in India have issued stern warnings to retailers, threatening heavy penalties for activating new iPhone 17 models with foreign SIM cards within 90 days of purchase. This action is a direct response to the growing grey market, where phones are being illegally diverted and exported to other countries, including Russia, where Apple has ceased operations. The diversion has caused significant shortages of the new iPhone 17, particularly higher-storage models, within the Indian market. This has led to frustration for domestic consumers and highlights the intense international demand for Apple's latest products. The company's crackdown aims to stabilize its supply chain and ensure availability in one of its key growth markets. No significant market reaction to this specific news was available.