With smartphone sales continuing to feel the squeeze at a global level, strong growth in India’s mobile market has made this country a priority for many of the major manufacturers.
As today’s Chart shows, challenger brands like Xiaomi have been grabbing a higher share within this competitive market. While Samsung retains its position as market leader, Xiaomi is now very much in the chasing pack, rising above brands like Lenovo, Motorola and once-popular Nokia. In light of such success, it’s no surprise to see Google resurrecting its Android One program with Xiaomi’s new Mi A1 model.
Interestingly, it’s still 40% of Indian internet users who say they would choose an iPhone when they upgrade or buy their next mobile device, compared to 18% who say the same about Xiaomi. But in a market where price-points are crucial, cost often trumps brand name.