Smartphone sales fell, but value topped $3.2 billion
Karnataka News
During the first phase of the festive season (September 26–October 7), smartphone sales in India experienced a 3% YoY decline, with over 13 million units sold, as reported by Counterpoint Research. Notably, online channels dominated the market, accounting for nearly 70% of total sales.
Despite the decline in sales, the total value of smartphones rose by 8% YoY, surpassing $3.2 billion for the first time. This increase in value can be attributed to several factors, including the rise in average selling price due to the popularity of premium and ultra-premium smartphones, and the shift towards online sales, which often involve higher-priced models, according to the report.
Sales of premium smartphones (priced above ₹30,000) increased by 7% YoY, while the ultra-premium segment (over ₹45,000) grew by 12% YoY, driven by Apple and Samsung.
On Flipkart, the Apple iPhone 15 emerged as the top-selling premium smartphone, showcasing its popularity among consumers seeking high-end devices. Meanwhile, on Amazon, the iPhone 13 took the lead in sales, highlighting its continued appeal even after the release of newer models. Both devices reflect Apple’s strong market presence and the demand for premium smartphones during this festive season.
Samsung’s strong sales in the premium segment were driven by deals on the Galaxy S23, S23 Ultra, and S23 FE models.
Offline sales began to pick up steam after October 2, demonstrating a notable increase in consumer activity. This spike in sales is explained by various enhanced offers and promotions that retailers introduced, creating a more attractive shopping environment. As these deals became more appealing, the urgency for consumers to rush into purchases during the early days of the sale period diminished. Shoppers felt more at ease, knowing they had time to explore options and take advantage of better discounts. This ultimately led to a more balanced and strategic approach to their buying decisions.
During the first phase, Samsung led the market in sales volume and value, securing 18% of the volume share and 22% of the value share, achieving double-digit growth.
The Galaxy S23 was Samsung’s best-selling premium Android smartphone.
Apple’s sales increased by single digits in volume; however, the overall value saw a larger boost thanks to the impressive performance of the iPhone 15. The iPhone 15’s high demand, driven by its advanced features, sleek design, and strong marketing, made it the top-selling premium device during the initial phase.
Beyond the top five brands, Motorola experienced the fastest growth in the initial phase.
The festive season accounts for 20% to 25% of annual smartphone sales
Several smartphones have distinguished themselves as top performers in the budget segment, capturing customers’ attention and seeking high quality without going over budget. Among these, the Samsung Galaxy A14 and Galaxy M35 have gained popularity for their impressive features and reliability. They offer users a robust experience at a reasonable cost, which makes them a popular option.
Additionally, the Moto G85 has made waves in the market with its strong performance and user-friendly interface, appealing to those who value functionality and style. The Redmi 13 series has also emerged as a favorite, providing a range of options that cater to diverse preferences while maintaining competitive pricing. Finally, the Realme Narzo series has captured the interest of budget-conscious consumers with its stylish design and solid performance, solidifying its position as a critical player in the segment. These devices reflect the growing demand for budget-friendly smartphones that deliver exceptional value.
Counterpoint’s projection for the upcoming festive season, post-Diwali, is optimistic, foreseeing a 3% YoY increase in volume and a 9% YoY rise in value, potentially reaching over 35 million smartphone sales.
The festive season accounts for 20% to 25% of annual smartphone sales.
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