With rising demand for Pro iPhones, India’s refurbished smartphone market grows steadily as supply constraints and consumer focus on verified devices continue to reshape the market landscape.
India’s secondary smartphone market continues to expand, driven by rising demand for recent-generation premium devices. According to a recent market report by Counterpoint Research, refurbished smartphone sales in India grew 4.9% in the first half of 2025. While Q1 was slow, Q2 brought significant momentum.
Supply constraints, particularly for newer models, however, remain a key challenge. Consumers are increasingly prioritising warranty coverage and verified devices, actively avoiding stolen or unverified units.
Apple led the growth among brands. Most refurbished iPhone buyers still choose base models. However, demand for Pro variants has steadily risen, creating a gap between supply and consumer appetite. Pro iPhones now hold a larger share in the secondary market than in India’s new smartphone segment.
Moreover, the market is seeing rising trade-in values and stable average selling prices (ASPs). Post-launch of the iPhone 17, refurbished iPhone 15 and 16 models are expected to retain higher-than-usual value due to limited availability. Pro and Pro Max models, in particular, are likely to maintain strong pricing.
Despite growing volumes, the overall growth rate of India’s refurbished smartphone market has slowed compared with previous years. Analysts point to supply bottlenecks and shifting consumer preferences as key factors.
The report also highlighted that India’s secondary market is evolving beyond entry-level devices. Consumers increasingly seek verified, high-end smartphones. The trend signals an opportunity for sellers to focus on premium refurbishments and enhance trust through warranties.
