Entry-level 5G smartphone market hots up ahead of festival season

India's sub-Rs 10,000 5G smartphone market is heating up with festive offers and brand launches as affordable chipsets boost supply and demand ahead of the shopping season

India’s entry-level 5G smartphone segment, typically held to be those priced below ₹10,000, is set to bustle in the upcoming festival season as brands like HMD, Poco, and Lava launch their products.

 

Industry insiders say changes to goods and services tax (GST) rates, which take effect on September 22, will help in pushing up sales even as the rate on smartphones remains constant at 18 per cent. “All the three chipset providers in the segment — Qualcomm, MediaTek and Unisoc — have solutions available, enabling original equipment makers to make 5G smartphones for less than ₹10,000. 

 

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