Xiaomi, Oppo, Apple strip features as 8-12% memory cost surge squeezes sub-₹20,000 phones
Indian smartphone brands are downgrading cameras, displays and audio to absorb a Q1 2026 NAND/DRAM cost spike. iPhone 17e BoM jumps 15.6% vs 16e. With 48% of consumers signaling they'd postpone purchases and 22% settling for lower specs, 25-30% of annual sales sit at risk this festive cycle.
Indian smartphone brands Xiaomi, Oppo, Realme and Apple are downgrading cameras, displays and audio to absorb 8-12% NAND/DRAM memory cost surge. Sub-₹20,000 segment hit hardest; 48% of consumers may defer festive-season purchases as affordability worsens.