Apple Records Unprecedented First Quarter Shipments in India
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Synopsis
Apple has set a record for first-quarter shipments in India in Q1 2025, largely due to the popularity of the iPhone 16 series and strategic promotions during the Republic Day sales, as reported by Canalys.
Key Takeaways
- Apple achieved record first quarter shipments in India.
- Strong momentum from the iPhone 16 series contributed to success.
- Promotions during Republic Day boosted sales.
- Samsung experienced growth despite a decline in overall shipments.
- Ongoing demand volatility may challenge the market ahead.
New Delhi, April 21 (NationPress) Apple has accomplished its highest-ever first quarter shipments (Q1 2025) in India, fueled by robust momentum from the iPhone 16 series and attractive offers across ecommerce and large format retailers (LFRs) during the Republic Day promotions, as indicated in a report released on Monday.
The launch of the iPhone 16e has enabled Apple to expand its reach into tier 2 and tier 3 cities, according to findings from Canalys, a reputable market research firm.
“Even though the quarter began with elevated inventory levels and a 23% year-on-year decline in overall shipments, Samsung managed to achieve a 5% annual growth in its S25 series compared to the S24 in Q1 2024, propelled by premium offerings and conversational AI features,” noted Sanyam Chaurasia, Senior Analyst at Canalys (now integrated with Omdia).
For both companies, the stickiness of their ecosystems and premium-focused channel strategies will be crucial in the upcoming quarters, he added.
As the overall demand softens, brands like Apple and Samsung are centering their strategies around upgrade intentions and higher average selling prices (ASP).
The changing US tariff environment enhances India's role in the global smartphone value chain, yet demand volatility poses challenges for the market in the near future.
“The tariff adjustments pave the way for increased local manufacturing, which is likely to benefit smartphone exports. However, there are ongoing demand-side risks, especially in sectors reliant on exports facing diminished global demand due to higher US pricing,” Chaurasia explained.
The demand for smartphones was already dwindling, with the replacement cycle triggered by the pandemic expected to taper off by mid-2025.
With limited organic growth factors and dependence on channel dynamics, the market is projected to show modest growth in 2025.
“Nonetheless, rising ASPs and financing options for premium models present a silver lining, with the focus shifting towards the Rs 20,000 to Rs 30,000 (approximately $250 to $350) price segment,” the report stated.
Overall, India’s smartphone market commenced 2025 with caution. The report indicated that smartphone shipments in India reached 32.4 million units.
Vivo maintained its leading position with 7.0 million shipment units and a 22% market share, further extending its lead. Samsung shipped 5.1 million units, while Xiaomi secured third place with 4.0 million units and a 12% market share, as per the report.
