Indian mobile handset sales to reach 231 mn by 12

Indian mobile handset sales is expected to touch 231 mn by end of 2012, an increase of 8.5 percent over 2011 sales of 213 million units, if forecast by Gartner is believed.

The research firm also predicts that the mobile handset market is expected to show steady growth through 2015 when end user sales will surpass 322 million units.

The Indian mobile device market is very competitive with more than 150 manufacturers selling devices to consumers. While most of the local and Chinese manufacturers have remained focused on low cost devices, some manufacturers have built capabilities to deliver smartphone devices and even ventured into other global markets, the report said.

The firm also said that the big global brands will continue to face competition from local and Chinese brands as some of these brands are building capabilities to compete at a larger level covering broader consumer segments.

India, according to Gartner, accounts for approximately 12 percent of worldwide sales, is an important market for device manufacturers, with aspirations to grow their global market share.

“The entry of Indian mobile handset players focusing on low-end, value conscious consumers has intensified competition in the Indian mobile device market. he average selling price (ASP) of a mobile device is approximately $45, with 75 percent of devices sold costing below $75,” said Mr. Anshul Gupta, principal research analyst at Gartner.

The firm also mentioned that the smartphone sales in India made up 6 percent of total device sales in the first three quarters of 2011, and this share is expected to increase to 8 percent in 2012.