January 2026 will be packed with 5G smartphone launches in India from OPPO, Realme, Poco, and Xiaomi, spanning budget to mid-range segments. Building on the Redmi Note 15 5G (launching Jan 6, as detailed previously), these releases emphasize durability, performance, fast charging, and value amid rising competition.
India's smartphone market heats up in January 2026 with several 5G launches across segments.
January 6 brings Xiaomi's Redmi Note 15 5G, reviving the popular mid-range line after a year. Leaks reveal a starting price of Rs 22,999 (8GB/128GB), 108MP camera, 5520mAh battery with 45W charging (up to 1.6 days backup), Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset, IP66 rating, and slim 7.35mm design—as covered in prior reports.
Launching the same day, Realme's 16 Pro series targets upper mid-range with strong performance, premium aesthetics, and aggressive charging, positioning as a key rival to the Redmi Note.
OPPO leads early-month action with the Reno 15 series (Reno 15, Pro, Pro Mini), prioritizing durability via All-Round Armour Body and IP66/IP68/IP69 ratings for premium mid-range appeal.
Poco's M8 and M8 Pro arrive later in January, delivering budget-friendly 5G with large batteries, capable chips, and competitive pricing.
Rounding out the month, Xiaomi's flagship Xiaomi 17—unveiled in China in September 2025—eyes a global and India debut around January, further boosting options.
