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Xiaomi Reportedly Planning to Stop Selling Some Smartphone Models in India

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What’s Going On?

On July 24, 2025, reports emerged that Xiaomi has decided not to launch its Xiaomi 15 Civi model in India this year. This move reportedly stems from the underwhelming performance of the Xiaomi 14 Civi when launched last year, despite heavy promotion around its Leica-branded camera and premium styling. Xiaomi has yet to make an official announcement, but the strategy appears confirmed by multiple industry sources.


Which Models Are Affected?

  • Xiaomi 15 Civi: Slated to be a mid‑segment device priced between ₹35,000–₹45,000, this model has reportedly been canceled for the Indian market.
  • Xiaomi 14 Civi: The predecessor launched in mid‑2024 did not meet sales targets and is currently available only at heavy discounts.

The cancellation reflects Xiaomi’s retreat from the premium-mid range tier in India amid weak consumer response.


Why the Change?

  • Disappointing sales of 14 Civi: Despite strong branding and specs, Xiaomi 14 Civi failed to resonate with buyers, prompting Xiaomi to reconsider follow‑up models.
  • Strategic ‘premiumization’ pivot: Xiaomi is doubling down on the ₹20,000+ segment and higher-priced flagships, moving away from its traditional high-volume budget focus.
  • Inventory and internal overstock: Industry reports cite bloated inventory and slower sales for Redmi Note models, leading to reduced appetite for similar mid‑segment phones.

Market Context: Xiaomi’s Decline in India

  • Slipping market share: According to Counterpoint Research, Xiaomi’s share dropped to 17% in 2024, and further slid to just 13% in Q1 2025.
  • Falling out of top 5: IDC data reports that in Q1 2025 Xiaomi fell to sixth position in India, after shipments dropped 42% year‑on‑year.
  • Strategic missteps cited by analysts: Experts poin

User experiences echo this sentiment: Redmi Note series became e‑waste… note 11/12 overpriced… people aren’t buying.


What It Means for Users

  • Consumers seeking phones in the ₹30K–45K bracket may have fewer Xiaomi options—especially at the upper mid‑range.
  • Discount opportunities: The lingering stock of Xiaomi 14 Civi might be available at significantly reduced prices.
  • Shift in brand focus: Xiaomi is repositioning itself toward higher-end models, targeting segments dominated by Samsung and OnePlus.
  • Poor retail support: Offline retailers reportedly feel sidelined by Xiaomi’s shifting priorities, which could affect availability.

FAQs

Which Xiaomi model is being stopped in India?

The Xiaomi 15 Civi is reportedly not launching in India following lackluster reception of its predecessor, the 14 Civi.

Why did Xiaomi pull the plug?

The 14 Civi underperfromed, leading Xiaomi to abandon its mid‑tier phone strategy for a leaner, premium-focused portfolio.

Is this part of a larger trend?

Yes, Xiaomi is pivoting toward higher-value models and consolidating its lineup after seeing sharp sales declines and suffered retail relations.


Bottom Line

Xiaomi’s decision to halt the 15 Civi launch signals a broader rethink of its India strategy: retreating from the mid‑segment toward refining its brand identity around higher-margin flagships and fewer, more focused models. With market share shrinking and competitors gaining ground, Xiaomi appears to be betting on quality over quantity in 2025.

Arya Mehta

Arya Mehta is a tech enthusiast and reviewer who decodes the digital world for everyday users. From AI developments to gadget reviews, Arya presents technology in an accessible and practical manner, helping readers make informed tech decisions.

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iPhone 15 Now Available for Under ₹45,000 in India: Is Raksha Bandhan the Perfect Moment to Buy?

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Raksha Bandhan is more than a festival—it’s a celebration of sibling bonds, memories, and thoughtful surprises. For 2025, tech gifting has a new champion: Apple’s iPhone 15—now available for as low as ₹44,900, making it one of the most attractively priced iPhones since launch.

Whether you’re buying for a sibling or yourself, these limited-time deals make the iPhone 15 a serious contender in the under-₹50K segment.


Understanding the ₹45,000 Price Tag: How Is It Possible?

Apple launched the iPhone 15 (128GB) at ₹79,900 in September 2023. As of mid-2025, pricing has dropped significantly on major platforms, especially when combined with exchange offers and bank card discounts.

Deal Breakdown:

Offer TypePlatformFinal PriceConditions
Amazon Price DropAmazon India₹59,300No conditions
Exchange + SBI Credit CardAmazon₹44,900With iPhone 12 or newer exchange
iStore Rakhi OfferIndia iStore₹44,900₹5,000 store + ₹4,000 cashback + exchange
Best Possible DealAmazon or Apple Reseller₹38,200iPhone 12/13 in mint condition

If you’re trading in an iPhone 12 or 13, your effective upgrade cost drops by ₹30,000+.


Why This Matters: Value vs. Timing

Historically, Apple doesn’t slash prices dramatically. What makes this deal exceptional?

  • Pre-iPhone 16 Window: As iPhone 16 nears launch, retailers clear out iPhone 15 stock.
  • Raksha Bandhan Demand Spike: Gift season brings aggressive pricing to drive sales.
  • Exchange Ecosystem Maturity: India now has trade-in pipelines that offer real value for older iPhones.
  • Bank-Backed Campaigns: Cashback and EMI options sweeten the pot—especially on SBI, HDFC, and ICICI platforms.

iPhone 15 Specs Recap (Still Flagship-Worthy)

  • 6.1” Super Retina XDR display
  • A16 Bionic chip — Same as iPhone 14 Pro
  • 48MP Main Camera — Major leap over iPhone 14’s 12MP
  • Dynamic Island — A Pro-only feature now in base models
  • USB-C Port — Future-ready charging
  • iOS 17 (Upgradable to iOS 19+)

You’re not buying a “budget iPhone.” You’re getting Apple’s 2023 flagship minus the Pro features, at nearly half the launch price.


Real Buyer Scenarios: Case Studies

Gifting a Younger Sibling (Mumbai)

Rohan traded in his sister’s iPhone 11 for ₹17,000, got ₹4,000 HDFC cashback, and bought the iPhone 15 at ₹44,900. Total spend: ₹23,900.

Upgrading from iPhone XR (Delhi)

Simran’s XR fetched ₹13,200 in exchange. Using SBI card discount and cashback, her final cost came to ₹30,500.

First-Time iPhone Buyer (Bengaluru)

Ashish, a Flipkart Plus user, got a no-exchange deal at ₹55,000 during a limited flash drop. He used Amazon Pay cashback credits to lower the price further.


Buyer Psychology: Why It Feels Worth It

iPhone is not just a device—it’s an aspirational brand in India. With many users holding off due to price, these Raksha Bandhan offers eliminate the price barrier while adding emotional appeal.

  • Gift factor: Unlike generic phones, iPhones carry social status and brand weight.
  • Longevity: You get at least 4 years of OS updates, future-proofing your gift.
  • User Delight: FaceTime, iMessage, AirDrop — all exclusive iOS perks become instantly accessible.

Shopping Platforms Comparison

PlatformExchange Available?Bank OffersDelivery
Amazon✅ Yes (Up to ₹29,000)SBI, HDFC, ICICI2-day
Flipkart✅ Limited trade-inHDFC, Flipkart Axis3-day
Apple India Store✅ With iPhone onlyHDFC cashback3–5 days
India iStore✅ Best trade-in valueHDFC ₹4K cashbackIn-store pickup

Pro Tips for Buyers

  • Backup your old iPhone before trade-in to avoid delays.
  • Check screen damage — cracked screens reduce trade-in value by 50–80%.
  • Clear Apple ID from old phones to unlock full value.
  • Buy before August 10, as Rakhi campaigns usually expire early.
  • Compare your exchange value on Apple India vs Amazon for best ROI.
Arya Mehta

Arya Mehta is a tech enthusiast and reviewer who decodes the digital world for everyday users. From AI developments to gadget reviews, Arya presents technology in an accessible and practical manner, helping readers make informed tech decisions.

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TCL Launches QD Mini‑LED TVs in India Under ₹85,000: Size Options from 55″ to 98

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India, July 2025 — TCL has officially launched its highly anticipated QD Mini‑LED TV series in India, offering top-tier display performance across multiple screen sizes—all beginning below ₹85,000. The brand’s new QD Mini‑LED models deliver a near‑premium viewing experience with features like 4K resolution, immersive sound, high refresh rates, and smart platform support.


Models & Pricing at a Glance

TCL C72K QD Mini‑LED TV Series features 55″, 65″, 75″, 85″, and 98″ variants:

  • 55″ model starts at ₹84,990, coming in under the ₹85K mark.
  • 65″ and 75″ listed around ₹99,990 and ₹1,59,990 respectively, with full pricing for the larger models still pending.

Additional QD Mini‑LED models like the C6K and C6KS start around ₹51,990–₹53,990 (for 55″ sizes), giving consumers premium options across budgets.


Display & Visual Features

These TVs are built on Quantum Dot + Mini‑LED technology:

  • Peak brightness reaches 2,600 nits.
  • Full‑array local dimming with up to 2,048 zones—enabling deep blacks and vibrant highlights.
  • CrystGlow HVA panel with wide viewing angles and ultra‑clear color reproduction.
  • Supports HDR formats including Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, and HLG.

TCL’s Halo Control Tech and AiPQ Pro processor power smart scene detection and precise dimming for cinema-grade visuals.


Gaming and Performance Highlights

All QD Mini‑LED models support gaming-ready features:

  • Native 144 Hz refresh rate with VRR support.
  • Game Master Mode and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro eliminate lag and screen tearing.
  • Ultra‑low latency with ALLM ensures smoother responsiveness.

Audio & Smart Features

  • Integrated ONKYO 2.1-channel Hi-Fi system with up to 60W output.
  • Supports Dolby Atmos, DTS‑Virtual:X, and Media‑ready speakers for room‑filling sound.
  • Runs on Google TV OS with voice assistant, Chromecast built-in, and Art Gallery mode.
  • Hardware: 3 GB RAM, 64 GB storage, Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth 5.x, HDMI 2.1 (eARC), USB ports, Ethernet, optical audio.

Why This Series Stands Out

  • Premium display under ₹85K for the flagship 55″ model.
  • Wide screen size options: 55″ → 98″.
  • Superb brightness and local dimming—ideal for bright Indian homes.
  • Top-tier audio and gaming specs at competitive pricing.
  • Available across retailers: Amazon, Flipkart, Croma, Reliance Digital, and offline stores.

Real User Feedback: Pros & Caveats

Pros from Reddit users and tech enthusiasts:

  • Excellent contrast, minimal blooming, and well‑balanced HDR performance.
  • Great value—for similar large-screen OLED, prices are often double.

Caveats:

  • Some users find the Google TV interface sluggish, especially on budget models.
  • Reports of minor blooming or dimming inconsistencies in local dimming zones.
  • Software updates are essential; higher-end models (C755 or C72K) offer better chipset support.

Final Takeaway

With the TCL C72K QD Mini‑LED 55″ priced under ₹85,000 and featuring display, audio, and gaming specs usually reserved for premium TVs, TCL offers unmatched value in the Indian market. Whether you’re a movie buff, gamer, or design-conscious user, these TVs serve as a compelling pick across sizes and price points.

TCL’s broader lineup—from entry-level C6K series to flagship C6KS/C72K—cater to diverse user needs while integrating future-ready features like Dolby Atmos, VRR, Game Master, and IMAX Enhanced.

Arya Mehta

Arya Mehta is a tech enthusiast and reviewer who decodes the digital world for everyday users. From AI developments to gadget reviews, Arya presents technology in an accessible and practical manner, helping readers make informed tech decisions.

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Tesla Announces Model Y Pricing for India: But Why Is the EV Giant’s Entry So Slow

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After years of speculation and endless anticipation, Tesla has officially announced the pricing for its popular Model Y in India.

While this marks an important milestone for the EV giant, it also brings attention to Tesla’s unusually slow approach to entering one of the world’s fastest-growing automotive markets.

What’s holding back the world’s most popular electric carmaker? Let’s dive in.


Tesla’s Announcement: Model Y India Pricing Revealed

Tesla has priced the Model Y at ₹70 lakh to ₹85 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the variant and customizations.

Key highlights:

  • The standard range model is expected to start around ₹70 lakh.
  • The long-range and performance variants may go up to ₹85 lakh or more.
  • Bookings are expected to open later this year, with deliveries starting in limited cities by mid-2025.

Though it is a luxury price point, Tesla fans in India have been eagerly waiting to finally get their hands on the brand.


Expected Features and Variants in India

The Indian version of the Model Y is expected to include:

  • All-electric range of up to 533 km (as per global WLTP standards).
  • Tesla’s signature Autopilot and advanced driver assistance features.
  • 15-inch touchscreen interface with over-the-air updates.
  • All-wheel drive on higher variants.
  • Minimalist interior and panoramic glass roof.

Tesla will initially bring vehicles as fully imported (CBU) units, which means higher taxes and duties contribute to the high price.


Why Has Tesla Taken So Long to Enter India?

Despite years of hype, Tesla’s India debut has been repeatedly delayed. Key reasons include:

  • High import duties, making Tesla cars nearly double the price compared to the US or Europe.
  • Lack of a strong EV charging infrastructure.
  • Policy uncertainties around local manufacturing and taxation.
  • Concerns over service and spare parts availability in India.

Elon Musk has often tweeted about India’s high tariff barriers, calling them among the highest in the world.


Challenges Tesla Faces in the Indian Market

Some major hurdles for Tesla include:

  • Affordability barrier: Even at ₹70 lakh, the Model Y remains out of reach for most consumers in a price-sensitive market.
  • Infrastructure gaps: Limited fast-charging stations and service centers, especially outside metros.
  • Local competition: Strong push from brands like Tata, Mahindra, and BYD with more affordable EV options.
  • Regulatory roadblocks: Unclear incentives and slow approval processes have discouraged Tesla from faster entry.

Local Manufacturing vs. Import: The Ongoing Debate

Tesla has insisted on reducing import duties before committing to setting up a local factory. Meanwhile, the Indian government has been encouraging Tesla to build manufacturing facilities under the Make in India initiative.

While talks have been ongoing, no firm agreement has been reached.

Local manufacturing would:

  • Help reduce costs by up to 30–40%.
  • Create jobs and boost local supplier networks.
  • Enable Tesla to qualify for government EV incentives.

However, the high initial investment and the uncertainty of demand have kept Tesla cautious.


Government Policies and EV Infrastructure

India aims for 30% EV penetration by 2030, but:

  • Charging stations are still concentrated in a few urban pockets.
  • Government subsidies and FAME II incentives mostly focus on two-wheelers and affordable EVs.

Tesla’s luxury positioning and lack of local production make it less eligible for these subsidies, further complicating its rollout strategy.


Impact on India’s EV Ecosystem

Despite challenges, Tesla’s entry is significant because:

  • It elevates India’s image as an emerging EV market on the global stage.
  • Forces local manufacturers to innovate and improve technology standards.
  • Attracts other premium global EV brands to consider India seriously.

Moreover, the hype around Tesla indirectly accelerates consumer interest in electric mobility overall.


Consumer Response and Market Expectations

While Tesla has a cult following among tech enthusiasts and the affluent segment, broader adoption will depend on:

  • Price reductions through local assembly.
  • Expansion of supercharging networks.
  • Reliable after-sales service and spare part availability.

Many potential buyers are adopting a “wait and watch” approach to see how Tesla resolves these issues before committing.


Conclusion

Tesla’s announcement of Model Y pricing in India is a historic step, but the journey is far from over.

As Tesla navigates high tariffs, infrastructural hurdles, and policy ambiguities, its future in India remains both promising and uncertain.

The Model Y’s arrival marks the beginning of what could be a new chapter in India’s EV story — if Tesla can adapt to this uniquely challenging yet potentially rewarding market.

Arya Mehta

Arya Mehta is a tech enthusiast and reviewer who decodes the digital world for everyday users. From AI developments to gadget reviews, Arya presents technology in an accessible and practical manner, helping readers make informed tech decisions.

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