India’s 5G Smartphone Shipments Surge to 87%, Secures 14th Spot Globally

India has witnessed a remarkable surge in 5G smartphone adoption, with 87 per cent of total smartphone shipments in the first half (H1) of 2025 comprising 5G enabled devices. This growth underscores the country’s swift transition to next-generation mobile technology.

According to Counterpoint Research, India now ranks 14th globally in terms of 5G share of total smartphone shipments. Just two years ago, in H1 2023, the country’s 5G share was only 47 per cent, placing it at 40th spot globally. The adoption accelerated through 2024, establishing 5G as the mainstream segment of India’s smartphone market.

Globally, 5G smartphones accounted for 71 per cent of shipments in H1 2025, fueled by growing consumer demand, widespread network rollouts, and more affordable devices. Asia continues to be the largest 5G smartphone market, though adoption in some countries remains slow.

Pakistan, despite being Asia’s seventh-largest smartphone market, has yet to launch 5G services, with spectrum auctions repeatedly delayed since 2021 due to high costs and weak infrastructure. Similarly, Bangladesh continues to rely on 4G networks, which are expected to dominate until at least 2030.

In Latin America, 5G smartphone shipments reached over 41 per cent in H1 2025. However, Venezuela recorded the lowest global adoption at just 1 per cent, even after launching its first 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) service in June 2025. Economic challenges, hyperinflation, and sanctions have left most Venezuelans dependent on 3G and 4G devices.

The report also highlights persistent adoption gaps in Africa, with six of the ten countries with the lowest 5G smartphone shipments located on the continent.

Conclusion:
India’s rapid embrace of 5G smartphones reflects a transformative shift in the mobile technology landscape, positioning the country among the leading markets globally and setting the stage for further growth in the coming years.