Apple Breaks into India’s Top 5 Smartphone Brands: Report

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Apple Breaks into India’s Top 5 Smartphone Brands: Report



Apple CEO Tim Cook

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Apple has made a significant breakthrough in the Indian market by becoming one of the top five smartphone manufacturers for the first time since launching iPhones in India.

During the festive quarter from October to December 2024, Apple garnered a notable market share of 9–10 percent.

The company’s focus on older iPhone models like the iPhone 15 and iPhone 13 has greatly contributed to this sales increase.

In a remarkable development, Apple has positioned itself as one of the top five smartphone brands in India, marking a significant achievement since it commenced iPhone sales in the country. As per provisional data from IDC and Counterpoint Research shared with Moneycontrol, the tech behemoth managed to secure a market share of 9–10 percent during the festive quarter spanning October to December 2024.

This accomplishment underscores Apple’s escalating appeal in India, a surge largely catalyzed by a range of festive discounts, no-cost EMI schemes, and compelling offers from online retailers.

As noted by Upasana Joshi, Research Director at IDC, “Apple set a record by entering the top five vendor list for the Indian smartphone market in Q4 2024 with a market share exceeding 9 percent. The growth was significantly boosted by festive discounts, in addition to affordability features such as 24-month no-cost EMIs that were available throughout 2024. Moreover, attractive e-tailer deals also played a crucial role, prompting a notable year-on-year double-digit growth for Apple.”

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Another crucial element in Apple’s sales success has been its strategic emphasis on older iPhone models such as the iPhone 15 and iPhone 13. Tarun Pathak, Research Director at Counterpoint Research, highlighted that the increasing inclination toward premium smartphones in India has significantly favored Apple. He stated, “There has been a notable rise in the demand for premium smartphones in India. With growing disposable incomes and a trend towards aspirational buying among the increasingly affluent middle class, particularly among the youth, Apple has emerged as a top choice for younger consumers. In addition, beyond Tier 2 cities, owning an iPhone signifies more than just tech-savviness—it’s regarded as a lifestyle choice.”

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Apple’s burgeoning success in the Indian market is emblematic of a broader growth pattern in emerging economies. India has positioned itself as Apple’s fifth-largest market and is projected to climb to the third-largest by 2026, with anticipated annual sales of iPhones reaching up to 15 million units.

In 2024, Apple reported the shipment of over 12 million iPhones in India, representing a remarkable year-on-year growth of approximately 34–35 percent from the 9 million units sold in 2023.

With a strong emphasis on local manufacturing, efficient distribution channels, and premium product offerings, Apple is strategically positioned to continue on its upward trajectory within the Indian smartphone market.

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