Affordable 5G Phones Drive India's Smartphone Market Transformation

• India's affordable 5G smartphone shipments surged over 1,900% year-on-year in 2025, driven by aggressive pricing and 5G network expansion.
• The smartphone market saw a significant transformation in 2025, with 5G phones now available in the 6,000-8,000 rupee segment.
• 5G phones constituted 88% of total smartphone shipments, indicating 5G is a market necessity, not just for premium devices.
• Apple recorded 25% year-on-year growth in India, with the base model iPhone 16 accounting for 47% of its series sales.
• Consumers are becoming more selective, holding onto phones longer, and prioritizing larger screens (6.7-inch or more) which made up 80% of the market.