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India’s smartphone shipments may be affected in the coming quarters as consumer demand may dip due to a surge in COVID-19 infections and subsequent lockdowns across the country, according to research firm Counterpoint.
Counterpoint cautioned that "A second and more virulent wave of COVID-19 is currently on in the country, and is likely to impact the coming quarters.”
Smartphone shipments grew nearly 23% in the first three months of 2021 compared to last year, crossing 38 million units. The first-quarter shipment numbers were led by Xiaomi with a 26% market share, driven by its expanded manufacturing capabilities to meet demand. Samsung and Vivo captured the second and third spot.
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Apple retained the top position in the premium segment in terms of market share, registering more than 1 million shipments for two consecutive quarters for the first time, the research firm said in a statement.
Smartphone maker OnePlus’s shipments grew over 300% in the January to March period compared to last year. Overall, Chinese smartphone brands held a total of 75% market share in the last three months, the market research firm stated.
