Key Takeaways
- India ranks second globally in refurbished smartphone growth with 5% YoY increase
- Refurbished iPhone sales surge 19% in India, driven by premium models
- Samsung maintains market leadership despite 1% decline
- Online C2C platforms and organized retailers fueling market expansion
India has emerged as the world’s second-fastest growing market for refurbished smartphones, recording a 5% year-on-year increase in sales during the first half of 2025, according to Counterpoint Research. The premiumisation trend sweeping the broader smartphone market is now extending to refurbished devices, with Apple’s iPhones driving significant growth.
Apple’s Remarkable Growth in Refurbished Segment
Refurbished iPhone sales in India jumped by an impressive 19%, fueled by strong consumer demand for premium models like the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 series. This surge helped Apple secure the second position in India’s refurbished smartphone market, though Samsung maintained its top spot despite experiencing a minor 1% decline.
Samsung’s market leadership was sustained by consistent demand for its Galaxy S22 and S23 models, with both devices ranking among the top-selling refurbished smartphones in the country.
Global Refurbished Market Trends
Africa led global growth with a 6% increase, also driven by strong iPhone demand. Meanwhile, Southeast Asia’s pre-owned smartphone market grew 5% year-on-year in H1 2025, supported by large unorganised channels and steady inflow of used devices and components from China.
Drivers of Market Expansion
Online platforms are accelerating the consumer-to-consumer (C2C) market for refurbished smartphones. This growth is fueled by increasing consumer trust, improved supply chains, and the convenience of digital negotiations and transactions.
Organized retailers in India are strengthening buyback initiatives across both online and offline markets by promoting flagship models as reliable, value-driven alternatives. Retailer-driven exchange programs and extended warranty offerings are also boosting demand for newer refurbished devices.
In a related development, Apple’s iPhone exports totaled approximately $10 billion, accounting for over 75% of shipments in the first half of the year.
