Indian smartphone brands, including Micromax, Karbonn, and Lava, are gearing up for a significant comeback, aiming to reclaim their position in the competitive Indian smartphone market. These brands, which were once dominant players in the industry, faced a decline in market share after the arrival of Chinese smartphone manufacturers. However, a recent report suggests that these Indian brands are now preparing to make a strong comeback, targeting the low-budget and mid-range segments. Here’s what you need to know about their resurgence.
Revival Plans of Indian Smartphone Brands
According to the report, Micromax, Lava, and Karbonn are strategizing to regain their market share by focusing on the low-budget and mid-range smartphone segments. With government pressure prompting Chinese brands to exit the low-budget segment (smartphones priced under Rs 8,000), Indian brands see this as an opportune moment to win back consumer trust and capture the market. Currently, there are only a few options available in this price range, such as Redmi A2 and Infinix Smart 7.
It is speculated that Karbonn and Micromax might launch smartphones priced at Rs 4,999 and Rs 5,999, respectively. However, it’s worth noting that these affordable prices could be tied to carrier partnerships with Jio or Airtel.
Lava, on the other hand, has already made a successful comeback with the launch of Blaze 5G and Agni 2 smartphones. The company has received positive feedback from both critics and buyers. Lava plans to further strengthen its presence by introducing more 5G-enabled phones under Rs 10,000 this year.
Government Support and Market Strategies
Pradeep Jain, from Jaina Group, the owner of the Karbonn brand, believes that this is an opportune time to adopt an aggressive approach in the market. He suggests that the government is supportive of their comeback and there is still a gap to be filled in the under Rs 10,000 segment. Jain emphasizes that 4G technology is expected to remain relevant for at least the next three years, and the company will focus on launching more products catering to this category.
An anonymous spokesperson from an Indian brand highlighted that the government is encouraging them to launch devices and ensure that Chinese brands do not engage in price disparity, a strategy previously used to push Indian brands out of the market.
Micromax, which made an attempt to reenter the Indian smartphone market in 2020 with the ‘In’ series, plans to launch high-quality models this time. The company is also considering selling its stake to raise funds for its business operations.
Lava, with its recent product launches, has been gaining attention. Union Minister for State for Electronics and Technology, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, publicly expressed his use of a Lava Agni 2 smartphone, emphasizing its Made-in-India origin.
Exciting Prospects for Indian Smartphone Brands
The revival of Indian smartphone brands like Micromax, Karbonn, and Lava brings anticipation and excitement for consumers. With a focus on the low-budget and mid-range segments, these brands aim to provide affordable options and regain their foothold in the market. As competition intensifies, it remains to be seen how these brands will differentiate themselves and meet the evolving needs of consumers.
Stay tuned for further updates on the resurgence of Indian smartphone brands and the innovative products they bring to the market.