NEW DELHI: Samsung aims to build a complete 5G connectivity ecosystem around its range of devices, according to a senior executive at the South Korean handset maker.
“Together with our collaborative partners, we will lead the way in building this new 5G ecosystem around Samsung smartphones, tablets, laptops, smartwatches and wearables,” said SVP and Head of MX Business, Samsung India. Mr. Raju Pullan said this in the 7th keynote speech. ETTelecom 5G|6G Congress 2024 Thursday Edition.
He said 5G-enabled smartphones are expected to account for about two-thirds of India’s smartphone market this year, due to purchases of the latest devices aimed at enhancing connectivity and speed.
“In 2023, 5G smartphone sales will surpass 4G smartphones for the first time and now account for almost 52% of the smartphone business. This year, 5G smartphones are expected to account for two-thirds of the total market. This shows how 5G is adding value to consumers’ lives,” Pooran said.
Pooran said there is growing awareness of the benefits of 5G, especially among Gen Z and Millennials, adding that these consumer cohorts want the best features and the best speeds.
“With the introduction of 5G smartphones, there has been a significant increase in the number of 5G subscribers across the country. The number of subscribers in India currently stands at 159 million, with a penetration rate of only 15%. We are expected to add around 500 million subscribers. We are very happy to be in this industry and support the growth of 5G in India,” he said. .
According to International Data Corporation (IDC), 79 million 5G smartphones were shipped in India last year. The average selling price of 5G devices fell 5% year-on-year to $374 (Rs. 30,900) in 2023.
According to the research firm, Samsung will lead the Indian smartphone market in 2023 with a 17% share, despite a 5.1% annual decline in sales.
A Samsung India executive described the shift of consumers to a connected ecosystem and the democratization of artificial intelligence (AI) as a “true game changer”.
In addition, the company’s financial platform is driving the adoption of premium smartphones in the country and helping expand connectivity in rural markets.
“Samsung Finance+ platform is helping to popularize premium smartphones in the country and connect rural markets in India today. We are experiencing strong growth,” Pooran said.
“5G will be a key catalyst in the democratization of AI in India. The combination of 5G, Internet of Things (IoT) and AI will revolutionize various industries such as healthcare, manufacturing and transportation. “This is an opportunity for India to explore that,” he said.
