Apple’s iPhone shipments in India grew by more than 55 percent during the first two months of 2020, a positive piece of news for the tech giant in what is an otherwise constant barrage of coronavirus-related stories about setbacks.
Apple has invested heavily in India, one of the few remaining growing smartphone markets. Over the last couple of years, the iPhone maker has established manufacturing in the country and will soon open its first Apple Store.
What March shipments will look like now that coronavirus has spread globally, remains to be seen, but for now, it can celebrate the iPhone 11 and XR for the booming demand in India.
The India-based website The News Minute cited a report from Industry Intelligent Group to explain iPhone shipments.
“Apart from increased local manufacturing, Apple found favor with customers with its prudent pricing and refined channel strategies, IIG’s Prabhu Ram told the news site. “In 2019, Apple’s shipments grew 17 percent (year-on-year), on the back of the successful iPhone 11 and iPhone XR.”
Apple shifted its fortunes during the middle of last year with price drops on older iPhone models and other incentives. By the end of the year, the iPhone had captured 75 percent of India’s premium smartphone market.
This no small feat considering the average annual income is less than $1,900 and Indian’s can pick from a variety of smartphones that average $159 in price.
Apple continues to make incremental steps. Apple CEO Tim Cook told shareholders last month he’s a “huge believer” in the opportunities to grow in India.
At that same shareholder’s meeting, Cook announced Apple would have an online store in India later this year and flagship store sometime next year.
Source: The News Minute
