For the first time, India emerges as one of Apple’s top 5 iPhone markets

India has emerged as Apple’s fifth largest market for iPhone sales in the second quarter, according to recent research. This development comes as Apple strategically expands its distribution and marketing efforts in what CEO Tim Cook identifies as a crucial future market.

In the June quarter, Apple witnessed higher iPhone sales in India compared to Germany and France, securing its position amongst the top five markets for iPhone sales, namely the U.K., Japan, China, and the U.S., according to Counterpoint Research.

Counterpoint Research further reports that India contributed nearly 4% of all iPhone sales in the second quarter, with a remarkable year-on-year growth rate of 50%. Apple now commands a 5.1% market share in India’s total smartphone market, up from 3.4% in the same period last year.

Apple’s rapid expansion in India extends beyond sales figures. The company has recently inaugurated its first physical stores in India, marking an important milestone for its retail presence in the world’s fifth-largest economy.

In an effort to diversify away from China, Apple has shifted some of its iPhone manufacturing to India. This move comes as China’s dominance wanes and India’s smartphone market witnesses an increased demand for premium smartphones. Counterpoint Research reveals that smartphones priced above $400 now comprise 10% of the total volumes of handsets shipped in India, up from 4% before the Covid-19 pandemic.

Ankit Malhotra, senior research analyst at Counterpoint Research, attributes Apple’s success in India to its overall strategy focusing on distribution and affordability. He states, “The growth in the premium market in India, which Apple has taken advantage of, has been a significant factor in this achievement.”