Smartphone prices in India set higher floor as AI memory crunch reshapes the shelf

Over 130 models have repriced upward as AI-driven demand for memory chips tightens supply. Budget brands like Xiaomi, Realme and Transsion are downgrading specs to hold price points, while Apple and Samsung lean into pricier variants. The Rs 29,999 sweet spot is eroding through 2026.

— Filed Wed, 20 May, 2026, 15:23 IST · Source ET Small Business · Updated

Smartphone prices in India are rising and staying high as AI-driven memory chip demand squeezes component supply. Over 130 models saw hikes recently; budget brands downgrade specs while premium players like Apple and Samsung push higher-priced variants.

Why this matters

Signals a structural reset of India's smartphone shelf, with budget brands cutting specs while premium players push variants. Sets a higher price floor that reshapes retail bands through 2026.

Retail-brand signals steady at 391 in 90d, consistent with broader pricing realignment activity.