Apple Breaks into India’s Top Five Smartphone Brands: A Major Milestone
Apple has achieved a significant milestone in its Indian market journey, becoming one of the top five smartphone brands in the country for the first time. This landmark achievement comes as the company continues to gain momentum, thanks in large part to the popularity of its older generation iPhone 15 and iPhone 13 models.
Apple Captures 10% of Indian Smartphone Market
According to preliminary data from IDC and Counterpoint Research shared with MoneyControl, Apple managed to secure 9-10% of the Indian smartphone market during the festive season in Q4 2024.
- Festive discounts, 24-month no-cost EMI options, and special e-commerce deals contributed significantly to this milestone.
- The iPhone, particularly in Tier 2 and smaller cities, has become more than a smartphone—it is viewed as a lifestyle statement, particularly among young, aspirational buyers with growing disposable incomes.
“Apple has become the brand of choice for young consumers, especially beyond Tier 2 cities. The iPhone symbolizes a lifestyle upgrade for the middle-class youth,” said Tarun Pathak, Research Director at Counterpoint Research.
He also predicted that Apple’s annual sales could touch 15 million units by 2026, with India set to become the company’s third-largest market, overtaking its current position as the fifth-largest.
Apple’s Year-on-Year Growth
Apple shipped over 12 million iPhone units in India in 2024, a significant jump from the 9 million units shipped in 2023. This represents a 34-35% year-on-year growth, underlining Apple’s consistent market progress over the years.
Apple’s Manufacturing Expansion in India
Apple has also been ramping up its local manufacturing capabilities in India:
- The company started producing the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max in India in 2024 through Foxconn and Pegatron.
- In addition to iPhones, Apple is also ramping up the production of AirPods, MacBooks, and iPads, signaling its commitment to India as a key production hub.
These efforts are expected to bolster Apple’s revenues and profits in the coming fiscal year and further cement its place in the Indian smartphone market.
The Road Ahead for Apple in India
With continued growth, competitive pricing strategies, and the introduction of new models, Apple is poised for further success in India. The company’s approach to combining affordability through offers with premium brand value seems to resonate well with the Indian market, making it a strong contender to climb higher in the rankings in the years to come.
Key Takeaways
- Apple has secured a top-five position in India’s smartphone market for the first time, capturing 10% market share.
- 12 million units were shipped in 2024, marking a 34-35% year-on-year growth.
- Increased local manufacturing of iPhones and other Apple products is helping Apple expand its market footprint.
- India is expected to become Apple’s third-largest market by 2026.
