Realme Plans India as Key Manufacturing Base for Smartphones and AIoT

Realme is making a bold move to grow its footprint in India by turning the country into a key manufacturing hub for smartphones and AIoT products over the next few years, affecting both industry strategy and supply‑chain dynamics.

The company’s Chief Marketing Officer, Francis Wong, said India will sit at the heart of Realme’s innovation, manufacturing and brand leadership journey, with plans to strengthen the manufacturing hub for smartphones and AIoT that serve both domestic and global markets.

Wong told ETTelecom that Realme’s focus on India goes beyond sales. The company plans to “democratize flagship innovations” in areas such as camera and battery technology and build long‑term trust with Indian consumers. He highlighted how feedback from the Indian market already shapes global product decisions, from the periscope camera in the 16 Pro Series to advanced fast‑charging battery solutions.

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This strategy also reflects a balanced sales approach. While Realme started as a digital‑first brand, it now sees offline retail as essential to reach a wider audience. The company operates with a roughly 50:50 mix of online and offline channels and has expanded its physical presence with more than 180 brand stores and over 570 service centers nationwide.

India’s growing role in Realme’s roadmap comes amid a broader shift toward domestic manufacturing. The company has partnered with Indian firms to locally make AIoT devices, including earbuds and wearables, and is working toward deeper integration with the local supply chain. Products that prove successful in India are increasingly considered for global rollout, underscoring the country’s rising influence in tech manufacturing.