In the first half of 2026, India’s refurbished smartphone market grew by 13%, while sales of new devices fell 11%, according to a recent report by Counterpoint Research cited in Fortune India. The shift reflects a broader trend of price‑sensitive consumers turning to certified pre‑owned phones as the market matures.
Rising Refurbished Sales Amid New‑Device Decline
Counterpoint’s data shows that refurbished units accounted for a larger share of the overall smartphone market in H1, with volumes up 13% year‑over‑year. In contrast, sales of brand‑new smartphones dipped 11%. The report does not break down the drivers behind the shift, but the numbers suggest that the segment is gaining traction as consumers seek cost‑effective alternatives without compromising on quality.
India’s Smartphone Market Share Trends
Counterpoint Research tracks India’s smartphone market share on a quarterly basis. While the report does not provide the precise figures for H1 2026, it confirms that the market remains highly competitive, with multiple vendors vying for dominance. The rise in refurbished sales indicates a potential redistribution of market share, as consumers who might have purchased new devices now opt for certified pre‑owned options.
Global Context: Shipments and Apple’s Rise
On a global scale, Counterpoint reported a 6% year‑over‑year decline in smartphone shipments in Q1 2026, a trend attributed to a broader memory chip shortage. In the same quarter, Apple became the first company to lead worldwide shipments, a milestone highlighted in the research. The global downturn contrasts with India’s mixed performance, where refurbished sales are on the rise even as new‑device sales falter.
Implications for Manufacturers and Retailers
Manufacturers may need to reassess their pricing strategies and after‑sales support to capture the growing refurbished segment. Retailers, on the other hand, could expand their refurbished offerings to meet consumer demand for affordable yet reliable devices. Counterpoint’s ongoing quarterly analyses will likely provide further insight into how these dynamics evolve throughout 2026.
Overall, the data underscores a pivotal moment in India’s smartphone ecosystem: a shift toward refurbished devices that could reshape competitive dynamics and influence how brands approach market penetration in the coming years.
Original Source: Fortune India