4G phones are making a comeback in India with 3% shipment growth in 2026

Counterpoint Research expects India's 4G smartphone shipments to grow 3% in 2026 after a 48% drop in 2025. 4G's market share is set to rise from 11% to 13%, and to 15% in 2027, as rising component costs widen the price gap with 5G.

• India's 4G smartphone shipments to grow 3% in 2026
• 4G share to rise from 11% to 13%, reaching 15% in 2027
• Brands offering 4G models in the ₹10,000–20,000 range grew from 2 to 12
• 4G shipments fell 48% in 2025