Apple has reached the 9-10% share in India’s smartphone market in the last quarter of 2024, based on initial data from IDC and Counterpoint Research. This marks its first time breaking into the top five rankings within the country. The increase may be linked to a growing interest in its high-end gadgets and cutting-edge features.
The Numbers Revealed
iPhone 16 Pro Max
Apple has become the go-to brand for younger Indians. The festive period in 2024 turned out to be a transformative moment for Apple in India. Their aggressive pricing tactics, such as discounts during the festive season, zero-cost EMIs spanning up to 24 months, and appealing offers across various e-commerce sites, allowed the tech giant to connect with a broader audience. The hype around the new AI-enhanced iPhone 16 series is undeniable. Surprisingly, older models like the iPhone 15 and iPhone 13 continued to perform well in sales.
Tarun Pathak, Research Director at Counterpoint, commented, “With the rise of disposable income and aspirational buying among the growing middle class, especially the youth, Apple has established itself as the favored brand among young consumers. In places beyond tier 2 cities, the iPhone signifies more than just a phone – it’s a lifestyle emblem.”
Impressive Growth
The statistics are remarkable. In 2024, Apple shipped over 12 million iPhones in India, marking a significant growth of 34-35% year-on-year, compared to 9 million units in 2023. Chinese smartphone brands have improved their offerings, addressing various concerns related to budget-friendly Android devices, making them more competitive. Brands like Vivo and Huawei have even outperformed Apple in their own market. Therefore, it’s intriguing to see Apple not just entering but flourishing in India’s price-sensitive smartphone sector.
India has become Apple’s fifth-largest market and could potentially become the third-largest by 2026, with expectations of selling 15 million units annually in India by then. This growth is part of Apple’s ongoing efforts to expand its manufacturing presence in the country.
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