iPhone 16: The Best-Selling Smartphone in India for 2025

iPhone 16 has emerged as the leading smartphone in India, selling over 6.5 million units in just 11 months of 2025. According to a report from Counterpoint Research, this performance surpasses that of Vivo’s Y29 5G model, which sold 4.7 million units during the same timeframe.

Significant Achievement for Apple

This accomplishment is particularly impressive for Apple, given the significant price difference between the iPhone 16 and the Vivo Y29 5G. Furthermore, the iPhone 15 also ranks among the top 5 best-selling smartphones. The report highlights a notable change in consumer behaviour, indicating that the era of budget phones is gradually diminishing. This trend may be influenced by the availability of easy purchasing options for consumers, including EMI plans, credit card offers, exchange programmes, and cashback deals.

Insights from Industry Experts

Tarun Pathak, the research director for consumer devices at Counterpoint, stated that there is a clear trend towards premiumisation in India, with the iPhone exemplifying this shift in the smartphone market. Additionally, Counterpoint forecasts that smartphone shipments in India are projected to reach 158 million units in 2025, reflecting a modest increase from the estimated 151 to 153 million devices shipped last year.

Apple’s Expanding Presence in India

Another contributing factor to these sales figures could be Apple’s increasing footprint in India. The company is expanding its local manufacturing capabilities to lessen its reliance on China. In 2025, Apple has announced the opening of three new retail stores located in Bangalore, Pune, and Noida.