Apple has achieved its highest-ever first-quarter iPhone sales in India, crossing the 3 million unit mark for the first time.
In a remarkable start to 2025, Apple has set a new record in India by shipping over 3 million iPhones in the first quarter, according to preliminary estimates by IDC. This is a significant jump from the 2.21 million iPhones sold during the same period in 2024, and signals Apple’s accelerating growth in one of its most important emerging markets.
A major contributor to this surge is the launch of the iPhone 16 series, especially the budget-friendly iPhone 16e, which alone accounted for more than half of the total shipments. The combination of premium branding and a more accessible price point has clearly resonated with Indian consumers.
“Surpassing 3 million units in 1Q25, Apple will record its largest first-quarter shipments in India, facilitated by affordability schemes such as No Cost EMIs, cashback, and eTailer discounts that spurred high double-digit growth,” said Upasna Joshi, research manager at IDC, in a statement to Moneycontrol.
What’s notable is that Apple has managed to buck the overall market trend. While the broader Indian smartphone market is projected to shrink by mid-single digits in Q1 2025—despite ongoing discounts and price cuts—Apple’s iPhone sales have grown strongly, underlining the brand’s increasing dominance in the premium segment.
This milestone showcases how Apple’s strategic moves are paying off in India. By offering flexible payment options like No Cost EMIs, cashback offers, and leveraging online discounts, the company has successfully expanded its reach beyond traditional high-end buyers.
Apple’s Momentum in India
India is quickly becoming a crucial market for Apple, and this record-breaking quarter may just be the beginning. With the ongoing expansion of Apple’s retail presence, localized manufacturing, and competitive pricing through entry-level models, the tech giant is clearly aiming for sustained long-term growth in India.
The impressive performance of the iPhone 16 series, particularly the iPhone 16e, reflects a growing consumer appetite for premium devices at accessible prices—a sweet spot that Apple seems to have nailed in this cycle.
Apple’s record Q1 sales highlight its growing momentum in India, its fastest-expanding market.
As Apple continues to invest in India, both in terms of infrastructure and customer incentives, the country may soon become one of the company’s top global markets—not just in terms of unit sales, but also in revenue and brand influence.
