The average cost of a smartphone in the country has gone from around Rs 17,000 in 2021 to over Rs 26,000 now. Parte of this increase came from the increase in the price of memory chips, which has doubled in some cases in recent months.
Fabricantes passed on the extra cost. Modelos that previously cost less saw adjustments of up to 40%. The result appears directly in the pockets of middle-class consumers.
Muitos postponed the purchase. What was previously a planned change every 24 months became a decision postponed until after 36 or 48 months.
- Aumento average price on popular models exceeded 15% in the first quarter
- Segmento below 15 thousand rupees suffered the strongest impact
- Ofertas of exchange and interest-free installments lost attraction strength
Mudança more visible in big cities
In metropolises, the behavior was clear. Consumidores avoid devices above 60 thousand rupees. Eles prefer to keep the current model for longer.
The lengthening of the usage cycle is added to another factor. Várias brands now offer software support for up to seven years on flagships. The hardware has also become more resistant.
Esses two points together reduce the pressure for novelty. The user feels that the device still delivers acceptable performance for a longer period of time.
Smaller Cidades maintain demand for premium
The picture changes when you look inside. In tier 2 and tier 3 cities, the demand for models above 60 thousand rupees has grown.
Compradores in these regions use interest-free installments to get devices with artificial intelligence features. The idea is to keep the device for several years without having to change it.
Amazon India recorded this movement. Clientes look for options that last longer. Eles avoid repeat purchases in the short term.
Reparos and the used market gain space
With high prices, many people chose to repair the device instead of buying a new one. Pequenos repairs keep your phone working.
Esse habit boosted the market for refurbished devices. Unidades certified and guaranteed attract those who want premium features at a lower price.
The price difference can reach 50% compared to the new model. Business volume in this category has increased in the last six months.
Vendas sector totals face pressure
The Indian smartphone market has lost steam. In the first quarter of 2026, shipments fell 3% year-on-year. Foi the worst start to the year in six years.
Projeções indicate that total volume could decline further throughout the year. Estimativas point to a drop of around 10% in 2026. The number of units sold would be close to 140 million.
The entry-level segment suffered the most. Já premium handled demand better thanks to features such as artificial intelligence.
The lengthening of the replacement cycle contributes to this scenario. With fewer exchanges, overall sales volume decreases.
Analistas monitor consumer behavior. The combination of high prices, longer software updates and pre-owned options has changed the dynamics of the industry.
The market that was once the fastest growing in the world is now facing structural adjustment. Consumidores better calculate the cost-benefit before deciding to exchange.