India was previously used to reasonably priced Android handsets, but after Apple's iPhone 16 has emerged, it has been the most popular smartphone in India in 2025, demonstrating a marked shift in consumer choice.
Apple sold almost 6.5 million iPhone 16 units in India in the first 11 months of the year, according to figures published by Counterpoint Research. The model led Apple’s overall smartphone shipments in the country and retained the top spot for the third consecutive quarter, driven by strong demand in both metropolitan centres and smaller cities.
According to the analysis, Apple's 2023-released iPhone 15 was one of the top five smartphones sold in India in 2025. This is a very rare achievement for a luxury brand in a place where buyers are highly cost-conscious.
Industry analysts credit aggressive online sales and holiday season discounts for the iPhone 16's impressive success. During Flipkart's Big Billion Days event, the gadget was one of the best-selling items and a major promotional deal. By reducing the typical seasonal slowdown observed for earlier models, these deals allowed the phone keep up its momentum even as the more recent iPhone 17 series hit the market.
India drives Apple’s revenue momentum
Apple’s success in India has extended beyond unit sales. During the year, the company reported its highest-ever revenue from India, even as its global revenue rose 8% to $102.5 billion, buoyed by demand for the iPhone 17 lineup and continued interest in the iPhone 16.
Apple CEO Tim Cook highlighted India as a standout market while announcing the company’s global financial results, citing expanding retail presence as a major contributor. Apple has opened new stores in India and other emerging markets in recent months, strengthening its direct connection with consumers.
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In October, Apple also crossed a historic milestone by becoming a $4 trillion company, joining Nvidia and Microsoft in the elite club. Analysts linked the surge in Apple’s valuation partly to strong iPhone sales and a faster shift of manufacturing for global markets to countries such as India and Vietnam.
In a note to CNBC, JPMorgan analyst Samik Chatterjee said Apple’s increased domestic investment and diversification of manufacturing away from China had improved its position amid global trade and tariff uncertainties.
