How Did India’s Smartphone Market Perform in 1H25?
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Synopsis
Discover how India's smartphone market is evolving with a 2% growth in 2025's first half, fueled by premium devices and strong regional demand. Apple leads the charge in shipments, while smaller cities show rising interest. This festive season promises exciting options for consumers!
Key Takeaways
- India's smartphone market saw a 2% YoY growth in H1 2025.
- Apple led with a 35% shipment increase.
- Premium smartphones over Rs 50,000 are key growth drivers.
- Smaller Tier-4 cities show strong demand.
- Festive season expected to boost premium segment sales.
New Delhi, Sep 19 (NationPress) India’s smartphone market has witnessed a 2% increase year-on-year (YoY) in the first half of 2025, with 60 million units shipped, according to a report released on Friday.
Apple has emerged as the fastest-growing brand, boasting an impressive 35% increase in shipments, as per data compiled by the International Data Corporation (IDC).
The report highlights that premium smartphones priced above Rs 50,000 significantly contributed to this growth, while the mid-range segment of Rs 10,000–20,000 continues to dominate overall volumes.
“Regionally, the northern states command a 33% share of the market, while the southern region has shown the fastest growth,” the report states.
Additionally, smaller Tier-4 cities, such as Mysore and Shimla, are experiencing robust double-digit growth, indicating a rising demand outside metropolitan areas.
Meanwhile, another report from CyberMedia Research (CMR) forecasts that India’s premium smartphone market is projected to grow by 18% in sales and 24% in value during the upcoming festive season.
Within this, super-premium devices priced between Rs 50,000–1,00,000 are expected to see a 15% growth, while the uber-premium segment priced above Rs 1,00,000 could experience a staggering 167% surge.
As stated by Prabhu Ram, VP of the Industry Research Group at CMR, aspirational buyers, particularly Gen Z and millennials, are propelling the premium segment as they seek powerful devices that align with their digital lifestyles.
“With enhanced accessibility and affordability initiatives, a growing number of consumers are eager to purchase the latest premium devices,” he noted.
In July, Samsung, Apple, and OPPO dominated the premium smartphone market with shares of 28%, 23%, and 11% respectively.
Backed by its new iPhone 17 series and consistent demand for older models, Apple is poised for a strong festive season, the report suggested.
Moreover, consumers are increasingly prioritizing the chipsets powering smartphones. Features such as seamless multitasking, high-end gaming, advanced cameras, and AI-driven experiences are becoming essential for buyers.
Analysts note that while the overall smartphone market growth remains modest, the robust demand in the premium segment, coupled with intensifying competition among brands, will provide Indian consumers with a wider array of options this festive season.
Point of View
The growth seen in India's smartphone market reflects a dynamic shift in consumer preferences, particularly towards premium devices. This trend not only highlights the increasing aspirations of buyers but also the competitive landscape among brands. As we move into the festive season, it is essential for consumers to be informed and make choices that best suit their needs and lifestyles.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the growth rate of India's smartphone market in 1H25?
India's smartphone market grew by 2% year-on-year in the first half of 2025.
Which brand saw the highest growth in shipments?
Apple emerged as the fastest-growing brand with a 35% increase in shipments.
What segment is driving the smartphone market growth?
Premium smartphones priced above Rs 50,000 have significantly contributed to the market's growth.
What regions are leading in smartphone sales?
The northern states have a 33% share of the market, while the southern region is growing the fastest.
How is the premium smartphone market expected to perform during the festive season?
The premium smartphone market is projected to grow by 18% in sales and 24% in value during the festive season.
