Market Trends of India Gaming Headset Industry
Rising Internet Penetration and Emergence of Cloud Gaming Platforms
- The online gaming market has seen significant growth, primarily fueled by the rising internet penetration and widespread adoption of affordable smartphones, both in urban and rural areas. Revenue in this sector is generated through various channels, including in-app purchases, pay-per-download, subscription services, in-app ads, and incentive-based ads.
- For instance, according to Hootsuite, the internet penetration rate in India rose to over 52% in 2024 from about 14% in 2014. Although these figures seem relatively low, it means that more than half of the population of 1.4 billion people have internet access this year. Thus, India is ranked second in the world in terms of active internet users.
- With the rising internet penetration, major technology vendors are investing in online gaming, driving market growth in the region. For instance, in April 2024, Krafton, the South Korean gaming company, in collaboration with its Spanish counterpart ZeptoLab, officially unveiled its latest mobile shooter game, Bullet Echo India. The game made its debut on the Google Play Store on April 4. Krafton highlighted that Bullet Echo India is infused with elements from India's vibrant culture and history. Additionally, the company has committed to introducing in-game events that align with India's diverse festivals in the coming months.
- The gaming market has undergone a significant transformation compared to a decade ago, primarily due to globalization, digitalization, and the rise of mobile gaming. Mobile gaming's remarkable growth has not only expanded the player base but also broadened the industry's horizons. The increasing number of mobile internet users is set to drive a fivefold surge in data consumption. IBEF projects that India's smartphone user base will hit 887.4 million by 2030.
- However, restraints like limited local game development and monetization of gamers are still challenging the high potential. In recent years, the overall internet ecosystem has initiated a course correction through end-to-end local game development.
Understand The Key Trends Shaping This Market
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Wireless Gaming Headset Segment to Hold Significant Market Share
- Wireless gaming headsets offer greater convenience and mobility compared to wired headsets. Gamers can move freely without being restricted by wires, allowing for a more immersive and comfortable gaming experience.
- The popularity of mobile gaming in India is on the rise, and wireless gaming headsets are well-suited for mobile gaming platforms. They provide a seamless connection to smartphones or tablets, enabling gamers to enjoy their favorite games on the go. For instance, in May 2024, AjnaLens, an Indian company in extended reality (XR), made waves by revealing the AjnaXR Pro, a mixed reality headset that was completely crafted in India. This milestone underscored a significant shift in the country's tech landscape, positioning Indian innovation on par with global tech leaders.
- Wireless gaming headsets have significantly improved in terms of audio quality, latency, and connection stability. Advancements in wireless technology, such as Bluetooth and wireless USB dongles, have made wireless headsets a viable and reliable option for gamers in India. In June 2024, AVID Products, an audio company hailing from Rhode Island, formally introduced its newest creation in headset technology, the AVIGA gaming headset. Crafted to provide top-tier sound, performance, and comfort, AVIGA is set to enhance the e-sports journey for gamers across the spectrum. Priced at USD 59.95, the AVIGA gaming headset offers either a 3.5 mm TRRS or USB-A connection. Interested buyers can purchase it directly from shop.avidproducts.com or from authorized resellers.
- India has a thriving e-sports scene, with many professional gamers and competitive gaming events. Wireless gaming headsets provide the freedom of movement required for professional gamers during intense gameplay, giving them an edge in competitive gaming environments. Lumikai and Amazon Web Services reported that India's e-sports industry is poised for substantial expansion, with a projected market value of USD 140 million by 2027. This growth trajectory is notable, especially given the prevalent dominance of casual gaming in the country.
- In 2023, India had 521 active professional e-sports players, marking the peak for the surveyed period, as reported by Esports Earnings. Pakistan followed closely with 69 professional gamers, securing the second-highest spot in South Asia.
- With the increasing emphasis on portability in India, wireless gaming headsets are aligning with the preferences of gamers who value convenience and minimalistic setups. Wireless headsets fit well into the modern lifestyles of urban gamers.
