India’s smartphone shipments collapsed to a decade low during Q3 2026

India’s smartphone shipments fell to a decade low by 20% year-over-year (YoY) during Q3 2026, noted Counterpoint Research. This steep fall during the July-September period was mainly due to high memory prices that led to constant increase in smartphone costs which resulted in softer demand, as OEMs held inventories.

“Rising component costs pushed device prices higher, putting increasing pressure on affordability and weakening the traditional mass-market volume engine, particularly below ₹15,000,” said Research Analyst Shubham Singh. “Sub-₹20,000 shipments declined by 47% in Q3 2026 as rising model prices pushed devices into higher price bands,” he added.

During Q3, 2026, Samsung became the top smartphone brand in India, after nine quarters, with a 17% share. The Galaxy A series drove volumes, the research firm said.

Vivo came second with a 16% share as their Y series continued to drive volumes. Oppo was at third position with a 12% market share. Xiaomi ranked fourth with a 12% share.

Counterpoint said that Apple iPhone 18 Pro series seen a strong start in India, with initial sales nearly 20% higher YoY than those of the iPhone 17 Pro series. It also mentioned that there’s a continued demand for the iPhone 17 lineup even after Apple pricing adjustments across its portfolio.

Google witnessed over 50% YoY growth in Q3.

MediaTek was the top chipset OEM with a 45% share in Q3 2026 in India.

“We expect India’s smartphone market to shrink by around 13% in 2026, with continued pricing pressure weighing on affordability and replacement demand. The post-festive seasonal slowdown will add to the pressure, while elevated component costs are likely to drive another round of price hikes after the festive season sale,” said Research Director Tarun Pathak.