Apple kicks Samsung down to third spot in India's tablet market

According to the latest report from market research firm CMR (CyberMedia Research), Apple had the second-highest market share (29%) in India's tablet market. The US-based brand had a market share of 29%. Samsung, on the other hand, dropped down from second to the third rank during the quarter. Apple saw a 144% year-on-year rise in iPad shipments in the first quarter of this year. Lenovo continued to top the Indian tablet market due to its low-cost devices.

Apple's rise seems impressive, especially considering that it has the highest ASP (average selling price) in the tablet segment. The cheapest iPad costs INR 34,900 (around $465), while the cheapest Galaxy Tab costs just INR 10,999 (around $146). This shows Apple's brand value and aspirational appeal. If Samsung wants its place back, the company needs better products, a better ecosystem of apps and services, and more importantly, better marketing.

Prabhu Ram, Head of Industry Intelligence Group at CMR, said, “Driven by the everything-from-home trend, Apple had a breakout quarter with iPad shipments growing a phenomenal 144% year-on-year in Q1 2021. Apple’s success is remarkable, as it lacks the cost-advantage that Android tablets have.“