NEW DELHI: Ownership of smart devices continues to grow in India, with smartphones remaining central to the Connected Consumer ecosystem, according to a new report by Techarc. However, the research, titled Techarc’s India Connected Consumer 2025, revealed that there is a decline in the actual usage of certain categories of smart devices.
The report finds that people own several smart devices, but don’t actively use them. The relevance of some devices is diminishing over time, it adds. On average, 27% of respondents reported that they have stopped using or reduced their usage of at least one of the smart devices they own.
Consumers are increasingly focused on enhancing the value proposition of their devices by improving features, quality, and overall user experience, rather than expanding the number of smart devices they own.
Among emerging categories, smart and connected cars are generating significant interest. Consumers are particularly eager to understand how artificial intelligence can enhance the relevance and functionality of smart devices across various sectors.
Shifting consumer preferences
Faisal Kawoosa, chief analyst and founder of Techarc, noted that while it is encouraging to see smart devices becoming integral to shaping our technology-driven lifestyles, there is a noticeable decline in interest for some products, which is impacting the growth prospects of certain categories in India.
“The connected customers don’t mind paying more if they get the quality and real unique value through these smart devices. This signifies a big shift in the buying behaviour of connected consumers who are giving up ‘crap-tech’ and appreciating ‘qual-tech’ coming from the ecosystem,” added Faisal.
The rise of smart cars
According to the report, by 2025, passenger cars launched in India will feature 5G M2M connectivity, on-device GenAI, cloud connectivity, and multiple displays across various price segments. However, most cars priced at `20 lakh and above will have 5G M2M connectivity and on-device GenAI as standard features. The report also highlights that in-car computing and intelligence (GenAI) as well as cloud applications will become integral to vehicles, enabling real-time data processing to assist drivers. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and technology providers are closely collaborating to optimise and localize these technologies for the Indian market.
The future of connected cars
Cars will increasingly feature multiple displays for the cockpit and cabin, catering to the needs of both drivers and passengers. The automotive sector is also skipping 4G connectivity and will directly enable 5G cellular technology. This leap could position India as the largest 5G M2M market in the world within the next 2-3 years.
Consumers can expect to use a range of familiar applications while driving, including communication apps for audio/video conferencing, OTT entertainment apps, music streaming, podcasts, online shopping, and vehicle maintenance and servicing.