Apple amongst high 5 smartphone manufacturers in India for the primary time because of iPhone 15 and iPhone 13 – Firstpost

Apple has achieved a major milestone in India by breaking into the nation’s high 5 smartphone manufacturers for the primary time. This accomplishment marks a turning level for the iPhone maker, which has lengthy been competing in a market dominated by budget-friendly native manufacturers, in accordance with knowledge from IDC and Counterpoint analysis Due to the rising recognition of its iPhone 15 and iPhone 13 fashions, coupled with enticing trade-in affords, Apple has managed to ascertain a stronger foothold in one of many world’s best smartphone markets.

With an estimated market share of 9–10 per cent within the fourth quarter of 2024, Apple’s progress displays a shift in Indian client preferences in direction of premium gadgets. This success is a part of the corporate’s broader world technique to make India a key market, the place its gross sales and native manufacturing initiatives are paving the best way for long-term progress.

iPhone 15 and iPhone 13 main the cost

Central to Apple’s success in India is the enduring enchantment of the iPhone 13, launched in 2021, and the sturdy demand for the newer iPhone 15, which debuted in September 2023. Regardless of being an older mannequin, the iPhone 13 stays a favorite on account of its affordability and widespread trade-in choices. In the meantime, the iPhone 15 has drawn consideration for its superior options, capturing curiosity from Indian shoppers searching for premium smartphones.

Each gadgets have performed a pivotal function in serving to Apple safe its place among the many high 5 smartphone manufacturers. The strategic deal with these fashions, mixed with trade-in affords and aggressive pricing, has resonated with price-sensitive Indian consumers.

Strategic reductions and financing choices

Apple’s climb into the highest tier has additionally been fuelled by its advertising and marketing efforts. The corporate launched festive reductions and financing choices, akin to interest-free EMIs for as much as 24 months, making its gadgets extra accessible. These affords had been additional bolstered by e-commerce platform offers, which helped Apple obtain double-digit progress all year long. Trade specialists have identified that these consumer-friendly initiatives have been instrumental in propelling Apple to this new milestone.

Native manufacturing drives progress

One other cornerstone of Apple’s technique in India has been its funding in native manufacturing. By producing fashions just like the iPhone 16 Professional and Professional Max by means of partnerships with Foxconn and Pegatron, the corporate has diminished prices and streamlined its provide chain. Apple additionally ramped up the manufacturing of AirPods elements in India, underlining its long-term dedication to the market.

In 2024, Apple shipped over 12 million iPhones in India, marking a 34–35% year-on-year progress. With India projected to grow to be Apple’s third-largest market by 2026, these efforts are laying the groundwork for sustained progress in a fiercely aggressive market.