Gurugram/New Delhi, August 29, 2018: The Indian Data cards (USB & MiFi) market witnessed 15% decline in 1H CY2018 when compared to 2H CY2017, as per CMR’s India Data Cards Monthly Market Review released today.

“1Q CY2018 slowed down towards the end due to previous stock clearance. FY2018-19 started at a good pace as there were fresh imports. However, it again slowed down due to holidays and to make way for new imports during the 3Q CY2018 for the forthcoming festive season,” observed Shipra Sinha, Lead Analyst, CyberMedia Research. 

“Reliance Retail’s JioFi 3 model contributed 57% market share and witnessed massive 199% growth when compared to 2H CY2017 in terms of unit shipments and proved to be the flag bearer of JioFi devices growth. Alcatel’s R217 MiFi launched with Vodafone operator support also witnessed huge 87% growth when compared to 2H CY2017 in terms of unit shipments. The model comprises all the features required for a superfast mobile Wi-Fi experience and is cost effective,” added Shipra Sinha.

In terms of technology, 4G/LTE data cards were the only contributor. However, this category witnessed 14% decline when compared to the 2H CY2017 in terms of unit shipments.

Reliance Retail continued its dominance in the overall data cards market with 78% market share in 1H CY2018. Huawei was at number two spot, with a 13% market share and Alcatel captured the third spot with 6% market share respectively in terms of unit shipments. The service provider market underwent consolidation, and was confined to just four vendors in 1H CY2018.