India’s smartphone shipments rose 5% year-on-year (YoY) in the third quarter of 2025

India’s smartphone shipments rose 5% year-on-year (YoY) in the third quarter of 2025. According to recent data by Counterpoint Research, this growth was supported by festive season buying and improving economic conditions.a

Softer retail inflation and government-driven fiscal support helped strengthen household spending, allowing the market to continue its recovery.

The premium smartphone segment, priced above ₹30,000, was the fastest-growing part of the market. Shipments in this category increased 29% year on year, reflecting a clear shift towards higher-value devices.

This trend drove the overall market’s value up by 18% year-on-year (YoY), marking the highest quarterly value ever recorded in India’s smartphone industry.

Among the vendors, vivo remained the market leader with a 24% share, maintaining its position from the previous quarter. The brand’s strong offline distribution and the ongoing success of its T-series boosted volumes in the mid-tier category.

Apple continued to strengthen its position in the premium space. The iPhone 16 became the most-shipped device in India for the second consecutive quarter. Strong festive demand and better retail availability pushed Apple’s market share to 9% in Q3, helping the company record its highest-ever Q3 shipments in the country.

Quarterly market share trends showed vivo rising from 19% in Q2 2024 to 24% in Q3 2025, solidifying its lead. Apple also saw steady gains compared to earlier quarters.

Motorola delivered one of the strongest performances of the quarter. Its shipments rose 53% year on year, fuelled by the popularity of its G and Edge series and improved offline expansion. The brand continued to build momentum across mid-range and affordable premium segments.

Samsung and Xiaomi each held a 13% share during the quarter, while OPPO maintained a 16% share. The ‘Others’ category remained steady at 25%, reflecting consistent contributions from smaller players and emerging brands.

Looking ahead, the data indicate that India’s smartphone market is expected to continue growing in the final quarter of 2025, as consumer demand remains resilient and brands prepare for the year-end sales cycle.

BY- Nirosha Gupta ;)