In a significant development, Apple has overtaken Xiaomi to become one of the top five smartphone brands in India during the first quarter of 2025. This marks a notable shift in the Indian smartphone market, traditionally dominated by Chinese manufacturers.
Market Overview
According to Canalys, smartphone shipments in India fell 8% year-on-year in Q1 2025, totaling 32.4 million units. This decline was attributed to persistent demand weakness and elevated channel inventory from late 2024.
Apple’s Performance
Apple achieved a significant milestone by surpassing Xiaomi in sales during this period. While specific shipment numbers for Apple in India were not disclosed, the company’s rise in rankings indicates increasing consumer preference for its products.
Xiaomi’s Position
Xiaomi, which previously held a strong position in the Indian market, experienced a decline in market share. In Q1 2025, Xiaomi shipped 4.0 million units, holding a 12% market share, placing it third in the market.
Factors Contributing to Apple’s Growth
Several factors may have contributed to Apple’s improved performance in India:
- Strategic Pricing: Apple’s pricing strategies may have made its products more accessible to a broader consumer base.
- Local Manufacturing: Increased local manufacturing could have reduced costs and improved supply chain efficiency.
- Expanded Retail Presence: Apple’s expansion of its retail footprint in India may have enhanced brand visibility and customer engagement.
Market Leader
Vivo maintained its lead in the Indian smartphone market with nearly 20% market share, reflecting its strong performance and consumer acceptance in the region. The Times of India
Feature Image Concept: An image depicting a rising Apple logo overtaking Xiaomi’s logo on a graph representing market share, symbolizing Apple’s ascent in the Indian smartphone market.