Apple has managed to claw its way back to
the top, and whilst its market share is smaller
than it once was, revenues are on the up, and
impressive marketing pushes and razor-sharp
partnerships will see the firm further penetrate
markets that were once off-limits. Content with
its success in America and Europe, Apple is now
turning its attention once again to Asia, and this
time means business.
In the quarter that ended in December, Apple
shipped more than 1.5 million iPhone units
in India, up more than 100% year-on-year,
making it the company’s most successful
quarter on record, according to research firms
Counterpoint and CyberMedia Research.
Analysts say that improved sales of Apple’s
older generation models - such as the iPhone
11 and iPhone XR - helped it to grow its sales
and market share in the country, with Apple
now accounting for 4% of India’s overall
smartphone market. Also popular was the
most recent iPhone 12 range, despite its hefty
price tag, and of course the new affordable
iPhone SE, which will no doubt serve as a
flagship model in price-conscious markets
where there are so many other models
available for less than $400. Apple finally
launched its online store in the country
in September after waiting for government
approval, and alongside the launch, it offered
customers a range of financing options as well
as AppleCare+, and perks such as a free pair
of AirPods with every iPhone 11 purchase to
bolster sales. Apple is also set to launch its
first Indian retail store this year. Previously,
the company struggled to sell its smartphones
in the country because of its expensiveImage: Josh Edelson