The Ultimate Guide: Buying a New Smartphone in India

From choices to confident decisions: The ultimate guide to smartphone shopping in India

In our fast paced world today, smartphones have now become an indispensable part of our everyday lives. However, one has to make sure that they are smartphones that are always there for you: it keeps you in touch with your loved ones, provides access to information on the go, manages your work, and lets you capture special moments. In an over-crowded market with so many options, picking a smartphone that is just right for you becomes a challenge, even in India, a nation that is known for its tech-savvy people. However, here is a guide that will help you overcome this challenge.

Research and budgeting:

It is advisable to set a criteria and abide by a budget before you get confused in the world of smartphones. Consider your personal needs, important features and brand preferences. You might want to look at different models across different price ranges to make the best choice.

Operating system:

Among the first decisions you will be required to make, is selecting between iOS or Android. iOS, which runs only on Apple’s smartphones including the iPhone 15 and others, is known for its smooth, fluid, and easy to use interface, and high levels of security. There is also on offer seamless integration with other Apple products. 

On the other hand, Android provides users with the freedom to select from a diverse range of devices from various companies, and customisation and personalisation like never before. Oh and not to mention, access to all of Google’s services.

Features to consider:

1. Performance: Simple multitasking, gaming and app operations are rendered possible by a superior processor and sufficient RAM. Performance evaluation can be done based on reviews and benchmarks set by third parties to measure a phone’s ability to multitask.
2. Battery life: Look for large capacity batteries with fast charging support, such that the phone can handle constant usage without interruptions. 
3. Camera: The setup of the cameras is also important, for it is what dictates how photos are going to be captured on the phone. Invest money on a mobile phone that has multiple camera sensors, optical image stabilisation, and intelligent features such as AI image recognition, filters, and more, so as to ensure your Instagram game is always on point. 
4. Display: Look for a display that is large and vivid as well, such that it can support binge-watching sessions, or enhance the productivity of its users via ease of use during multitasking, Additionally, also look for high refresh rate screens such that it can also handle marathon gaming sessions. 
5. Connectivity: It is recommended to consider getting a 5G smartphone, though they are mostly 5G by default today anyway. Additionally, Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 support also contribute to seamless connectivity for your phone, with both, the internet, as well as other devices such as your smartwatch, TV, TWS earbuds, laptops, and more.
6. Storage: Appropriate storage space is one of the first things that you should consider when buying a smartphone. It is necessary to have a good amount of storage depending on how many apps you use, photos and videos you save, as well as messages and other documents on your phone. Assess the amount of storage you need and then choose a model with expandable storage or sufficient internal storage. Internal storage on phones these days varies anywhere from 128GB to as much as 1TB.
7. User reviews and feedback: Checking users feedback and reviews helps gauge the actual performance, user experience, and any possible issues encountered on a phone. Web-based forums, online media, and review websites can help to facilitate your decision-making process here.

Comparisons and final decision:

After having filtered all the possible options that fulfil your expectations and suit your preferences, it is time to carry out a comprehensive comparison of the shortlisted models. Consider aspects such as specifications, pricing and value-added features to make an informed final decision.

Purchase options:

Research the different purchase options available to you such as buying a phone online online through e-commerce websites and brand websites, as well as through offline retailers or authorised stores, or carrier deals. Take into account the price, trade-in offers, the available financing options and the accessories included when purchasing the smartphone. Many manufacturers offer trade-in programs that provide incentives for recycling old devices, so consider this as well.

Purchasing a new smartphone is a matter of a lot of research, and taking into account multiple factors, and informed decision-making. It  is integral to make the right decision based on your individual needs and budget constraints.