iWorld
Global smartphone shipments increase in first quarter amidst trade concerns
MUMBAI: According to preliminary data from the International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker, global smartphone1 shipments experienced a 1.5 per cent year-over-year increase in the first quarter of 2025, reaching 304.9 million units. This performance aligned with IDC forecasts, attributed to manufacturers increasing production in anticipation of potential US tariffs on imports from China.
IDC vice-president Francisco Jeronimo noted that geopolitical uncertainty and the threat of US tariff hikes on Chinese goods led vendors to accelerate production and pull forward significant shipment volumes, particularly into the US market, during the first quarter. This supply-side action resulted in shipment figures exceeding levels expected based on underlying consumer demand.
IDC group vice president Ryan Reith highlighted that while the US government’s recent pause on smartphone import tariffs from China provides temporary relief, the continued reliance on China’s supply chain and ongoing tariff volatility create challenges for future planning and decision-making for many companies. He suggested that US smartphone brands should leverage the tariff exemption to maximize building and shipping. Additionally, he cautioned that economic uncertainty could potentially dampen consumer demand in the coming months.
The US smartphone market saw growth of over five per cent in the first quarter, despite the impact of tariffs and trade tensions on disposable income. IDC research director Anthony Scarsella attributed this growth to increased consumer interest in new models from leading manufacturers and a sense of urgency to purchase before potential price increases. He also suggested that the 90-day tariff pause could further boost sales in the second quarter.
Globally, the first quarter saw growth among major smartphone vendors, particularly Chinese companies in their domestic market, supported by government subsidies extended to smartphones in January 2025. This subsidy program aims to stimulate consumption for products priced below yuan 6,000 ($820).
Among the top vendors:
* Samsung regained market leadership, driven by the continued success of its Galaxy S25 premium devices and the mid-range Galaxy A series, including the latest Galaxy A36 and A56 featuring more affordable AI capabilities.
* Apple achieved its highest first-quarter shipments ever, attributed to stockpiling to mitigate potential US ariffs and to address potential supply chain disruptions in other regions. However, its performance in China declined as its Pro models were not included in the Chinese government subsidy program.
* Xiaomi’s performance was primarily driven by growth in China due to the government subsidies, positively impacting sales of its mid-range products.
* Oppo regained the fourth position despite a decline in shipments due to weaker performance in international markets, which was not fully offset by growth in China.
* Vivo experienced substantial year-on-year growth of 6.3 per cent, supported by subsidies in China and growth in international markets, with strong performance in low-end devices and the V series.
In conclusion, while the global smartphone market showed positive shipment growth in the first quarter of 2025, the ongoing US-China trade war and tariff volatility continue to present significant concerns for the remainder of the year.
iWorld
Parineeti Chopra hosts new parenting series Mom Talks on Zee5 and Bullet
Celebrity parents share honest stories in 9-episode show launching 4 April 2026.
MUMBAI: Parineeti Chopra is stepping into a brand-new role not on the big screen, but as the warm, relatable host helping parents navigate the beautiful chaos of raising children. Bullet microdrama and Zee5 have announced the launch of Mom Talks, a fresh content-led IP hosted by the popular actress. The 9-episode series brings together celebrity parents including Imran Khan, Neha Dhupia, Vikrant Massey & Sheetal, and Gauahar Khan & Zaid Darbar to share candid, real-life perspectives on everyday parenting.
Positioned as a high-engagement format, Mom Talks taps into the growing demand for authentic and credible parenting content. It also offers seamless, contextual integration opportunities for brands. The series is backed by a strong lineup of partners including Johnson’s Baby, GSK, Aveeno Baby, Mini Klub, Titan Eye+ and Cordelia Cruises.
Bullet microdrama app, co-founder & chief business officer Azim Lalani said the show exemplifies how content is evolving towards more rooted, sustained engagement. “It’s about bringing content that people come back to, while creating a natural space for brands to be part of the narrative,” he noted.
Mom Talks creator Bullet head of AVOD & partnerships Munaf Merchant explained the core idea, “We wanted to build a safe, honest, one-stop destination for parents seeking real answers to everyday questions.”
The first episodes will stream for free on ee5 AVOD starting 4 April 2026, with new episodes dropping every Friday and Saturday. The series will also be available on the Bullet microdrama app.
Speaking about their association, Peeyush Unikkat from Johnson’s Baby highlighted the brand’s focus on supporting modern parenting journeys, while Aakash Mehta from GSK emphasised the show’s role in making important health conversations more relatable for new parents.
In a digital space often filled with filtered perfection, Mom Talks promises something refreshingly real honest conversations, celebrity insights, and practical wisdom, all wrapped in Parineeti Chopra’s engaging presence. For Indian parents, this could be the parenting series they’ve been waiting to binge.
