Apple, LG and Samsung, each eyeing a share of India’s growing smartphone market, have launched their flagship models that closely compete with each other. Samsung’s Galaxy S2, a premium Android-based phone, LG’s recently-launched Optimus 2X and Apple’s iPhone 4 while being priced competitively will have dedicated data plans from telecom operators.
A recent study by the Boston Consulting Group has predicted there could be as many as 237 million mobile internet users in India by 2015, up from the current estimate of about 11 million. With the increase in 3G users and mobile internet browsing, telecom operators are eager to cash in on smartphones.
Samsung’s Galaxy S2, to be priced at Rs 32,890, will be available exclusively across all Vodafone networks from June 3 and at the Samsung smartphone outlets from June 9. “Consumers buying a Galaxy S2 will get 1GB of 3G data download free per month for a period of six months from Vodafone,” claims Samsung. The company is also expecting to attract users by allowing them to pre-order the phone online for Rs 1,000.
Aircel, meanwhile has announced that it will launch iPhone 4 for its 55 million subscribers on May 27. The telecom operator has also announced a new pricing model that allows customers to recover the handset cost over a period of 24 months. Following a payment of Rs 34,500 for the 16-GB model and Rs 40,900 for the 32-GB model of iPhone 4, customers can recover their device cost in monthly credits on their service plan.
The company believes that an aggressive data pricing model will help it in promoting iPhone 4. “With a robust roll out of Aircel’s 3G services in 13 circles across India, the launch of iPhone 4 will allow our consumers to savour the 3G experience. With our new price plans, we aim to make iPhone more affordable than ever,” said Sandip Das, director, Aircel.
In a bid to expand its market share to 10-12 pe cent, LG has announced that this year 40 per cent of its phone launches will be smartphones. “Undoubtedly, 2011 will be the year of smartphones in India. At LG, we are focused on innovation through consumer research that helps us prioritise consumer choice for expanding our footprint in the mobile industry,” claimed Vishal Chopra, business head-mobile communication, LG Electronics India. LG’s Optimus 2X is priced at about Rs 30,000.
The need to make a mark in Indian smartphone market is echoed by Ranjit Yadav, country head, Samsung Mobile & IT. “In 2011, we will take Samsung’s leadership in speed, screen and content to a new level. With the Galaxy S2, we have set new standards of quality viewing and powerful performance on mobiles packed in a slim and modern design,” he said.
Airtel has also confirmed to bring iPhone4 to India on May 27. While no official statements have been issued, sources said that prices will be competitive with those of Aircel. “Data plans are being deliberated over as we are eager to bring more users on to its 3G networks with premium devices like the iPhone 4,” said the source.