India's refurbished smartphone market recorded 13 per cent year-on-year volume growth in the January–June 2025 period, even as new smartphone volumes contracted by approximately 11 per cent over the same timeframe, according to a report by Counterpoint Research released on 1 September. The divergence signals a structural consumer shift toward pre-owned devices as new-device prices climb.

Market Leaders and Preferred Models

Samsung led India's refurbished smartphone market with a 30 per cent share, followed by Apple at 23 per cent. Apple, according to the report, is benefiting particularly well from the organised refurbished segment's expansion. The iPhone 13 has emerged as one of the most sought-after refurbished models, offering a relatively premium experience — superior cameras, display, and performance — at a significantly lower price point than comparable new devices.

Why Consumers Are Choosing Refurbished

Rising memory prices are a key driver, according to Counterpoint Research Senior Analyst Prachir Singh. 'Rising memory prices are changing the value equation for consumers,' Singh noted. 'As the cost of new smartphones increases, refurbished devices offer a more affordable way to access premium specifications. The lower upfront cost, combined with the growing availability of easy EMI and financing options, is making premium refurbished smartphones accessible to a wider consumer base.'

The pressure is most acute in the entry and mid-range segments, where consumers are particularly price-sensitive. Rather than purchasing a new mid-range handset at an elevated price, buyers can access older flagship devices with better hardware at a lower outlay — a trade-off that is increasingly resonating across income brackets.

Trade-In Programmes and Certified Refurbishment

Trade-in and exchange programmes are emerging as important growth levers for the refurbished segment, the report noted. The market is also witnessing a gradual shift toward certified refurbishment, which addresses consumer concerns around quality and reliability — a factor that has historically limited adoption of pre-owned devices in India.

Outlook for 2026

Counterpoint Research Director Tarun Pathak described the trend as more than a temporary response to pricing. 'The growing adoption of refurbished smartphones is fundamentally a consumer shift amid rising new-device prices,' Pathak said. The research firm projects India's refurbished smartphone market to grow 16 per cent in 2026, underpinned by continued new-device price inflation, premiumisation trends, and rising consumer acceptance of pre-owned handsets. This comes amid broader signals that India's smartphone upgrade cycle is lengthening, making the refurbished proposition structurally more compelling over the medium term.