Apple has achieved a major milestone in India by securing a spot among the top five smartphone brands for the first time since it began selling iPhones in the country. According to preliminary data from IDC and Counterpoint Research, shared with Moneycontrol, the tech giant captured a 9–10 percent market share during the festive October–December quarter of 2024.
This achievement highlights Apple’s growing popularity in India, driven by festive discounts, no-cost EMI options, and attractive deals from online retailers.
“Apple set a record by entering the top five vendor list for the Indian smartphone market in Q4 2024 with a market share exceeding 9 percent. Festive discounts drove this growth, alongside affordability offers such as 24-month no-cost EMIs, which ran throughout 2024 and emerged as one of the leading factors for this surge. E-tailer deals also ensured a high double-digit growth for Apple through the year,” Upasana Joshi, Research Director at IDC, was quoted as saying.
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Apple’s strategy of focusing on older models like the iPhone 15 and iPhone 13 also played a key role in boosting sales. Tarun Pathak, Research Director at Counterpoint Research, explained that the growing preference for premium smartphones in India has benefited Apple significantly. “There has been a significant rise in the premium smartphone segment in India. With increasing disposable income and aspirational purchases among the growing middle class, especially the youth, Apple has become the brand of choice for young consumers. Beyond Tier 2 cities, the iPhone represents more than just a smartphone—it’s a lifestyle statement,” he said.
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Apple’s success in India is part of a broader trend of growth in emerging markets. India, currently the company’s fifth-largest market, is expected to become its third-largest by 2026, with annual iPhone sales projected to reach 15 million units.
In 2024, Apple shipped over 12 million iPhones in India, marking a 34–35 percent year-on-year growth compared to 9 million units in 2023.
With its strong focus on domestic manufacturing, effective distribution, and premium offerings, Apple is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory in India.