Apple pullout sparks debate

Global iPod major and computer maker Apple computers decision to shut down its new Bangalore centre has sparked an introspection in the Indian BPO industry, which however, for now has shrugged off the move as a one off incident.

The maker of popular iPod digital music players and sleek Mac computers has been at the forefront of the Indian outsourcing market in the recent past "� first it announced its grand foray into the country and then went packing within a matter of three months.

In between, Apple granted some major outsourcing contracts to Indian companies, including a deal with HCL infosystems under which the Indian IT firm would provide widerange marketing and service support for iPods.

La-affaire apple has left the Indian business process outsourcing market perplexed and the industry players are groping over possible conclusions "� whether Apple is acting as a doomsayer or indicating a further bloom in the market.