Same phones, new names: India brands hike budget smartphone prices 50-60% via stealth relaunches
Over 130 budget smartphone models in India have been repriced 50-60% higher under fresh names, as brands absorb component cost surges and forex pressure. Counterpoint and Omdia warn 2026 shipments could fall 10-11% as price-sensitive buyers delay upgrades, squeezing assemblers like Dixon Technologies.
Smartphone brands in India are relaunching budget models under new names with minimal tweaks but 50-60% higher prices to offset component cost surges and forex pressure. Over 130 models have seen hikes; 2026 shipments expected to decline 10-11%.