According to the latest report, Samsung will launch 10 smartphones in the July-September quarter in the Rs 9,000 to Rs 18,000 segment. At this price point, the smartphones will compete against Micromax, Lenovo-Motorola, Xiaomi, Meizu and other new entrants.
Most of the new models will be introduced under a sub-brand called the J series and the 4G-compliant handsets will be made in India. Two models, Galaxy J7 and J5, are expected to be the first to hit store shelves early next month.
“After beating Apple in the premium smartphone segment last quarter, Samsung is now looking at extending its lead in the overall market by filling the gap with a new line-up in the Rs 9,000-18,000 segment and would spend hugely on promotions,” the CEO of a leading electronics retail chain said, asking not to be identified.
According to Hong Kong-based Counterpoint Technology Market Research, The mid-segment accounts for 30% of smartphone sales by volume in India and is second only to the entry-level category, which has 35% of sales. The Rs 9,000-18,000 segment is the fastest growing and expected to become the largest in the next two-quarters.
Samsung and Micromax are the top two smartphone sellers in India with a combined share of 48%, although it’s not always clear which one of the two is ahead. But even more hotly contested are the next three slots. Five companies are locked in battle for rankings three to five. Of these, Intex, Lava and Karbonn are Indian, while Xiaomi and Motorola are from overseas — China and the US, respectively.
