Apple shipped roughly 14 million iPhones in India throughout 2025, representing a 24% year-on-year growth in shipments. This surge allowed Apple to maintain its position as the undisputed leader in India’s premium segment.
The “iPhone 16” Effect
The iPhone 16 series was the standout performer, accounting for 57% of all iPhone shipments in India for the year.
- Q2 Dominance: The iPhone 16 became the most-shipped device in India during the second quarter of 2025.
- New Entries: The late-2025 launch of the iPhone 17 series (which captured 10% share in its debut quarter) and the iPhone 16e further diversified the portfolio.
- Older Models: The iPhone 15 and iPhone 13 remained high-volume drivers, especially during festive e-commerce sales.
Key Drivers of Apple’s India Growth
| Strategic Factor | Impact in 2025 |
| Premiumization | The ₹30,000+ segment grew 15% YoY, now making up 23% of the total market. |
| Retail Expansion | Apple opened its fifth flagship store in Noida (December 2025), following Bengaluru and Pune. |
| Manufacturing | 1 in 5 iPhones sold globally is now made in India; local assembly reduced import duty impact. |
| Affordability | No-cost EMIs and trade-in programs made flagship devices accessible to “aspirational” buyers. |
| Services Push | Launched Apple Creator Studio at ₹399/month (66% cheaper than US prices) to lock in creators. |
Competitive Landscape (2025 Volume Share)
While Apple hit a record for its own growth, it remains outside the top three by total unit volume, as the market is still dominated by value-driven Chinese brands.
- Vivo: 23% (Market Leader)
- Samsung: 15%
- Xiaomi: 13%
- Apple: 9% (Record High)
The 2026 Outlook: A Maturing Market
Analysts predict India’s smartphone market will shrink by 2% in 2026 due to rising component costs (specifically memory) and a depreciating rupee.
- Rising ASPs: Average Selling Prices (ASP) rose 9% in 2025 and are expected to climb another 5% in 2026.
- Apple’s Advantage: Because Apple operates almost exclusively in the high-margin, ₹60,000+ segment, it is better insulated against the memory price hikes that are currently crushing budget Android manufacturers.
Conclusion: From Niche to Necessity
Apple’s rise to a 9% share proves that the iPhone has transitioned from a niche luxury item to a primary aspirational target for India’s middle class. With an all-time revenue record confirmed by CEO Tim Cook in late 2025, India has officially cemented its status as a critical pillar of Apple’s global financial health.
