With iPhone 17 accounting for 57% of total iPhone sales, Apple sets new benchmarks in India, marking a turning point in its emerging-market strategy.
Apple’s Strongest September Quarter Ever in India
Apple has just posted its highest-ever India revenue for a September quarter, a key milestone in its global earnings report of $102.5 billion. The record marks 14 consecutive quarters of iPhone growth in the country and underscores India’s rising status in Apple’s global strategy.
According to CEO Tim Cook, demand for the iPhone 17 has been the driving force behind this performance, with the latest model accounting for a massive 57% of all iPhones sold in India during the quarter.
“We also set a September-quarter revenue record in emerging markets, and an all-time revenue record in India,” Cook said during the earnings call.
What’s Fueling the iPhone 17 Craze?
The iPhone 17’s popularity in India can be attributed to a combination of factors:
- Domestic manufacturing, improving supply and pricing
- Improved financing options, making devices more accessible
- High upgrade rates, boosted by an expanding iPhone user base
Apple CFO Kevan Parekh revealed that iPhone revenue reached $49 billion, up 6% year-over-year, with India playing a significant role in that surge. The company also reported a record number of upgrades, as more Indian consumers moved to newer devices—especially the iPhone 17.
Two Apple Stores and a Growing Footprint
Apple’s first two retail stores in India, opened earlier this year in Mumbai and Delhi, have helped fuel demand by:
- Enhancing brand visibility
- Providing a premium offline experience
- Supporting after-sales services and trade-ins
These retail efforts are part of a broader localization strategy that includes “Make in India” manufacturing, reducing reliance on imports and offering competitive pricing.
15–20% Surge Over Previous iPhones
According to estimates, iPhone 17 sales outperformed prior models by 15–20% during the same launch window. Industry analyst Tarun Pathak from Counterpoint noted that Apple’s growing accessibility has enabled it to tap into a wider consumer base, particularly urban and aspirational buyers.
In addition to India, Apple saw strong sales across Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa, but India remains the standout performer due to its scale and fast-growing middle class.
India’s Growing Share in Apple’s Global Revenue
Apple is on track to cross $10 billion in revenue from India in FY25, which would make up about 2.5% of the company’s projected global revenue of $400 billion. While still a small slice, it reflects rapid growth in a region previously considered a challenging market for premium smartphones.
“The iPhone 17’s launch has set a new benchmark for Apple in India,” said a Bernstein analyst. “Affordability programs and continuous promotions are helping Apple sustain this growth.”
Looking Ahead: Momentum Into December and Beyond
With the holiday quarter approaching, Apple expects the iPhone 17 momentum to carry forward into December. Analysts believe:
- Continued festive season promotions
- New EMI and cashback schemes
- Apple’s expanding offline and online presence
will likely push Indian sales to new highs.
India is no longer just an emerging market for Apple—it’s a critical engine for growth, both in revenue and market share.
