Apple has reportedly achieved its strongest year ever in India, with iPhone shipments reaching 14 million units in 2025. The remarkable growth helped the company expand its market share in the world’s second-largest smartphone market, even as overall industry sales remained flat.
iPhone Shipments Soar in 2025
According to a TechCrunch report citing Counterpoint Research, Apple saw its iPhone shipments in India jump from 7% market share in 2024 to 9% in 2025 – marking its best annual performance in the country so far.
In absolute numbers, that translates to around 14 million iPhones shipped in India in 2025, out of a total 152–153 million smartphones sold during the year. While the overall smartphone market remained stagnant, Apple stood out as a growth leader.
What Drove Apple’s Growth?
Industry experts attribute Apple’s India success to several strategic moves:
- Wider product portfolio: From the flagship iPhone 17 series to more affordable models like the iPhone 16 series and iPhone 16e, Apple’s range appealed to a broader customer base.
- Strong retail presence: Apple expanded its availability through both offline stores and online platforms, improving accessibility across cities and towns.
- Easy financing options: No-cost EMIs, cashback offers, and bank deals played a major role in attracting price-sensitive Indian consumers.
- Brand value and customer loyalty: Apple’s premium positioning and strong after-sales service continue to win over users upgrading from Android smartphones.
Apple’s Manufacturing Push in India
Another significant factor behind Apple’s growth in India is its increasing focus on local manufacturing. As part of its global strategy to reduce dependency on China, Apple has shifted a portion of its assembly operations to India.
- As per Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Apple has exported $16 billion worth of iPhones in the first nine months of FY26.
- Since FY22, the company has shipped iPhones worth $50 billion (approx. Rs. 4.51 lakh crore) from India.
- Apple manufactures in India through contract partners such as Foxconn, which operates under the government’s PLI scheme (Production-Linked Incentive).
These numbers are expected to grow further by the end of FY26, strengthening India’s position as a key manufacturing and export hub for Apple globally.
Flat Smartphone Market in India
While Apple recorded a new high, the broader smartphone market in India remained flat at around 152 million units, the same as the previous year. This stagnation suggests a maturing market with fewer first-time buyers and a shift towards premium and upgrade-driven purchases – an area where Apple continues to thrive.
Apple’s Long-Term Strategy in India
Apple’s performance in 2025 could be a turning point in its India journey. With rising local manufacturing, strong demand in urban markets, and expanding retail and service networks, the company appears to be laying the groundwork for long-term growth.
As India continues to grow in importance for Apple, both as a consumer base and a manufacturing hub, the brand is likely to play a more prominent role in shaping the premium smartphone segment in the country.
FAQs
How many iPhones were shipped in India in 2025?
Apple shipped around 14 million iPhones in India in 2025.
What is Apple’s market share in India now?
Apple’s market share rose to 9% in 2025, up from 7% in 2024.
Is Apple making iPhones in India?
Yes, Apple manufactures and exports iPhones from India.
What is the value of iPhones exported from India?
$50 billion since FY22, including $16 billion in FY26 so far.
Why did Apple grow in India in 2025?
Due to better product range, financing, and local assembly.
