India’s Smartphone Shipments Hit Six-Year Low in Q1 Due to Price Increases, According to Counterpoint Research

In the first quarter of 2026, India experienced a 3% decline in smartphone shipments compared to the previous year, representing the weakest quarterly performance in six years. This decline was attributed to cost pressures, price increases, and weak demand, according to a report from Counterpoint Research released on Friday.

More than 80 smartphone models have seen average price increases of 15%, with an additional 15%–20% anticipated in the second quarter.

“The market is experiencing a significant affordability challenge, resulting from sharp increases in memory costs and currency fluctuations that have compelled OEMs to elevate prices on critical models,” stated senior analyst Prachir Singh.
“India’s smartphone market is projected to continue facing challenges in the short term, with Q2 2026 expected to witness a double-digit decline,” noted research director Tarun Pathak.

Vivo retained the top position in the smartphone market with a 21% share, followed by Samsung and Oppo.

Read more: India replacing China in US smartphone supply chain, now fulfills 40% demand: Report

Apple achieved a 9% market share, bolstered by strong demand for the iPhone 17 series.

Google emerged as the fastest-growing premium brand, with a year-on-year shipment increase of 39%, attributed to its AI-driven features.