By Apple Breaks Into India’s Top 5 Smartphone Brands: A Historic Milestone
Apple has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in India, marking its entry into the country’s top five smartphone brands for the first time. This feat is particularly remarkable given the highly price-sensitive nature of India’s market. According to preliminary data from IDC and Counterpoint Research, Apple captured an impressive 9-10% market share during the festive season from September to December 2024.
This achievement highlights Apple’s growing influence in India, a market previously dominated by budget-friendly Android devices. The company’s strategic localization efforts, combined with increased consumer demand for premium devices, have contributed significantly to this success.
Localization Fuels Apple’s Entry Into India’s Top 5 Smartphone Brands
One of the major reasons Apple broke into India’s top 5 smartphone brands is its focus on localization. The company has begun manufacturing high-end models such as the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max in India through partnerships with Foxconn and Pegatron.
Additionally, Apple is ramping up AirPods component production in Pune, with plans to begin full-scale AirPods manufacturing in Telangana by 2025. This localized approach not only helps Apple meet government regulations but also reduces costs, making its products slightly more accessible to Indian consumers.
The company’s India-made product portfolio already includes iPads and MacBooks, further establishing its manufacturing footprint. However, some iPad production has shifted to Vietnam, a strategic move as the Indian government pushes for more local assembly of tablets.
Financial Growth Underscores Apple’s Success in India
Apple’s financial performance reflects its growing market share in India. In FY2023-24, the company’s net profit surged by 23% to ₹2,745.7 crore, while revenue climbed 36% to ₹67,121.6 crore. This growth was largely driven by strong iPhone sales, supported by festive season demand and targeted promotional campaigns.
Experts predict continued growth in both sales and profits for the current fiscal year, cementing Apple’s position as a key player in India’s premium smartphone segment.
Record iPhone Shipments Boost Apple’s Ranking
In 2024, Apple shipped over 12 million iPhones in India, a staggering 34-35% year-on-year increase compared to 9 million units in 2023, as per IDC and Counterpoint Research. This growth not only underscores the increasing popularity of Apple products but also highlights the company’s ability to cater to a diverse and evolving consumer base.
The Indian smartphone market as a whole also witnessed growth, with IDC reporting over 38 million units shipped in Q4 2024—a 5-6% year-on-year rise. This followed a strong performance in Q3 2024, during which 46 million smartphones were shipped. Apple’s significant contribution to this growth solidifies its position as a leading brand in the region.
Why Apple’s Entry Into India’s Top 5 Smartphone Brands Matters
Apple’s entry into India’s top five smartphone brands is not just a milestone for the company but also a testament to the evolving preferences of Indian consumers. The demand for premium devices is growing, and Apple is strategically positioning itself to capture this emerging market.
By focusing on local manufacturing, expanding its product lineup, and leveraging festive season demand, Apple has successfully carved a niche in a market traditionally dominated by affordable smartphones. With further localization efforts and growing consumer loyalty, Apple is poised for sustained growth in India.
