India’s smartphone landscape in 2025 flipped the script on expectations, as entry-level 5G phones exploded in popularity with shipments surging more than 1,900% compared to the previous year. Key drivers included slashed prices, improved supply of cost-effective 5G processors, and 5G coverage blanketing the country at breakneck speed.
Market trackers revealed a dual-track recovery: budget 5G handsets flew off shelves, especially those priced between Rs 6,000 and Rs 8,000, while high-end devices maintained loyal followings. Total 5G shipments comprised 88% of the market—a 12-point leap year-on-year—proving next-gen tech is now table stakes for competitiveness.
Apple’s performance stood out, growing 25% to secure 9% share, powered by the iPhone 16 base model’s 47% contribution to its lineup. Buyers clearly favored accessible luxury over extravagant specs.
A leading voice in market intelligence described 2025 as ‘a recalibration year.’ Total sales may have softened slightly, but budget 5G momentum, premium stability, and fresh brand entrants signal resilience and reinvention.
Display trends leaned big: 80% of shipments featured 6.7-inch-plus screens, catering to demands for media-rich experiences. MediaTek commanded 45% of chipset sales overall, with Qualcomm holding 34% in premium segments.
Analysts forecast headwinds for 2026 from escalating component prices, likely curbing impulse buys. Shoppers are savvier, retaining phones longer and prioritizing tangible upgrades. This shift heralds a more discerning era in India’s booming mobile sector.