India smartphone shipments reportedly decline in first quarter of 2022, Xiaomi continues to lead – Times of India

According to the International Data Corporation ’s (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker, India smartphone shipments declined for the third consecutive quarter, shipping 37 million smartphone units in the first quarter of 2022, a drop of 5% YoY. The opening of the year was relatively slower as compared with 1Q21, due to the impact of the third wave of COVID, tight supplies especially for the low-end price segments, and rising inflation leading to increasing end consumer prices.
“5G accounted for 31% of shipments with an ASP of US$375 in 1Q22. IDC estimates that shipments beyond US$300 will be fully 5G by the end of 2022,” said Upasana Joshi, Research Manager, Client Devices, IDC India.
As per the report, the pandemic-induced surge in eTailer shares over the past two years subsided with a marginal drop to 49% in 1Q22, but with 7% YoY growth in shipments. The growth came from multiple sales events such as Republic Day, Valentine’s Day, etc., combined with online exclusive offers. Offline channel shipments fell by 13% YoY. Despite no major COVID-related restrictions on movement, retail footfall remained low through the quarter.
In the first quarter, MediaTek-based smartphones had a share of 51% at an average selling price (ASP) of $174 (Rs 13,472), while Qualcomm made a recovery increasing its share to 28% with an ASP of $244 (Rs 18,892).
Xiaomi continued to lead, though shipments declined by 18% YoY in 1Q22. Its dominance in the online channel remained with a 32% share (including sub-brand POCO). In the 5G segment, Xiaomi jumped to the second slot with volume drivers like the MI 11i series and Redmi Note 11T.
Samsung regained its second slot, registering a YoY decline of 5% in 1Q22. The opening quarter for the Galaxy S22 series witnessed a strong demand with impressive pre-bookings, especially in the offline channel. It also maintained its lead in the 5G segment with a 29% share, the key models being the Galaxy M32 and Galaxy A22.