Synopsis
Apple's launch of the iPhone 16e represents a strategic move to bolster its growth in India and rejuvenate demand in developed markets. The new model features advanced technology and competitive pricing, aiming to capture a larger market share in the premium smartphone segment.Key Takeaways
- iPhone 16e launched to enhance growth in India.
- Features the cutting-edge A18 chip and Apple C1 modem.
- High-end smartphone segment saw a 36% YoY growth.
- Apple achieved 72% YoY growth in Q4 2024.
- Available in various storage options starting at Rs 59,900.
New Delhi, Feb 20 (NationPress) The introduction of the iPhone 16e signifies a pivotal strategy by Apple to maintain its growth trajectory in India while revitalizing interest in developed markets, according to industry analysts on Thursday.
Apple has unveiled the iPhone 16e, a noteworthy addition to the iPhone 16 series, offering robust functionality at a competitive price point. The iPhone 16e promises swift, seamless operation and exceptional battery longevity, thanks to the cutting-edge efficiency of the A18 chip and the innovative Apple C1, the company's first cellular modem.
According to CyberMedia Research (CMR), the high-end smartphone sector experienced a remarkable 36 percent year-over-year (YoY) growth in India, with the super-premium (Rs 50,000–Rs 1,00,000) and ultra-premium (above Rs 1,00,000) categories seeing YoY increases of 10 percent and 25 percent, respectively.
High-end smartphones now account for nearly one in five devices shipped, fueled by consumers' desire for state-of-the-art technology and lifestyle-driven choices.
In Q4 2024, Apple achieved a spot among the top five smartphone brands in India for the first time, attaining an impressive 72 percent YoY growth and capturing an 11 percent market share.
“The latest iPhone 16e represents a significant milestone for Apple, bringing the company closer to complete oversight of its integrated hardware and software platform,” stated Prabhu Ram, VP of Industry Research Group, CyberMedia Research (CMR).
The integration of Apple’s proprietary cellular modem in the iPhone SE heralds a new chapter, setting the stage for a wider adoption of Apple's proprietary modem technology in future iPhone 17 series and beyond.
“India is a vital component of Apple's long-term growth vision—similar to the role China played in the previous decade. Although it is still the early stages for Apple in India, its persistent retail expansion, marketing strategies, and affordability initiatives provide significant opportunities for growth in Urban and Aspirational India,” Ram explained to IANS.
As per Tarun Pathak, Research Director at Counterpoint Research, the new iPhone 16e is quite remarkable.
“In crucial factors influencing purchase decisions, such as the camera, the base iPhone 16 continues to be an attractive option. The premium segment in India is largely driven by financing options, with half of the consumers opting for EMIs to purchase their devices,” Pathak told IANS.
The iPhone 16e will be offered in white and black, with storage options of 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB, starting at Rs 59,900. It will be available in two matte finishes—black and white. Pre-orders will commence on Friday, with availability set to begin on February 28.
—IANS
