Made-in-India Smartphone Shipments Surge 6% in 2024: Apple and Samsung Lead the Charge

Made-in-India Smartphone Shipments Surge 6% in 2024: Apple and Samsung Lead the Charge

In a significant boost to India’s manufacturing prowess, Made-in-India smartphone shipments grew by an impressive 6% year-on-year (YoY) in 2024, driven primarily by robust exports from tech giants Apple and Samsung. According to the latest Counterpoint Research report, these two brands alone accounted for a staggering 94% of India’s smartphone exports, underscoring their pivotal role in elevating India’s position in the global tech supply chain. This milestone aligns with the Make in India initiative, showcasing the country’s growing prominence as a smartphone manufacturing hub.

A Stellar Year for Smartphone Exports

The 6% YoY growth in Made-in-India smartphone shipments reflects a dynamic shift in the global electronics landscape. With Apple and Samsung expanding their production bases in India, the nation has emerged as a critical player in meeting international demand. The Counterpoint ‘Make in India’ Service report highlights that this surge is fueled by a combination of increased exports and supportive government policies, notably the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. This initiative has incentivized global manufacturers to establish and scale their operations in India, reducing reliance on imports and strengthening the domestic ecosystem.

In 2024, Samsung retained its crown as the top smartphone manufacturer in India, posting a 7% YoY growth in shipments, largely propelled by a 13% YoY increase in exports. Meanwhile, Apple solidified its dominance in the premium segment, with manufacturing partners like Foxconn Hon Hai reporting a 19% YoY rise in volumes, driven by popular models such as the iPhone 14, iPhone 15, and iPhone 13. Together, these brands have turned India into an export powerhouse, catering to global markets while bolstering local production.

Key Players Shaping the Market

While Apple and Samsung lead the export race, other brands have also made notable strides. Vivo secured the second spot among manufacturers, achieving a 14% YoY growth and capturing a 14% shipment share. This success is attributed to its aggressive expansion in offline retail and a strengthened distribution network. On the flip side, OPPO faced challenges, slipping to fourth place with a 34% YoY decline in shipments due to fierce competition and a growing reliance on contract manufacturing.

Emerging as the fastest-growing manufacturer, Tata Electronics recorded an extraordinary 107% YoY growth, fueled by the production of iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models. The company’s expansion of its iPhone assembly facilities, alongside ventures into semiconductor fabrication and OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test) plants, has positioned it as a vital cog in the global electronics supply chain. Meanwhile, Dixon Technologies emerged as the top manufacturer in the overall mobile handset segment (including smartphones and feature phones), driven by strong partnerships with brands like Transsion and Motorola.

The Role of Government Initiatives

The Make in India campaign, backed by the PLI scheme, has been instrumental in this growth story. By offering financial incentives and fostering a favorable manufacturing environment, the government has attracted global giants to set up shop in India. Prachir Singh, Senior Research Analyst at Counterpoint, noted, “Major global smartphone manufacturers are increasingly diversifying production to ensure a more resilient supply chain and minimize risks associated with over-reliance on a single country. India presents itself as a great manufacturing destination due to its huge local market, affordable labor costs, and supportive schemes.”

This strategic push has not only boosted smartphone exports but also set the stage for double-digit growth in manufacturing in 2025, with increasing local value addition anticipated. The synergy between policy and industry efforts is transforming India into a global hub for electronics innovation.

What’s Next for Made-in-India Smartphones?

Looking ahead, the Counterpoint report predicts that smartphone manufacturing in India will continue its upward trajectory in 2025, with exports expected to play an even bigger role. The success of Apple and Samsung, coupled with the rise of players like Tata Electronics and Dixon Technologies, signals a bright future for the sector. As 5G adoption accelerates and consumer demand for premium devices grows, India’s manufacturing capabilities are poised to meet both domestic and international needs.

The IPL T20 Season 2025, which kicked off on March 22, 2025, also provides a timely platform for brands like Nothing, which partnered with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, to amplify their visibility. This convergence of sports and technology further underscores India’s growing influence across industries.

Conclusion: A Milestone for Make in India

The 6% growth in Made-in-India smartphone shipments in 2024 is a testament to India’s evolving role in the global tech ecosystem. With Apple and Samsung driving 94% of smartphone exports, and the Make in India initiative continues to gain momentum, 2025 promises even greater achievements in the smartphone industry. Also Read:- OnePlus 13 Mini Design Leaks, Likely to Receive 6000mAh Battery