The mobile gaming industry in India is experiencing unprecedented growth, with projections estimating the sector will reach $1.6 billion by 2027. A notable trend is the increase in mobile-first gaming, as indicated by the India Games Market Report, which reveals that over 96.8 percent of gamers engage with games via smartphones or tablets. In this dynamic scenario, several smartphone manufacturers are gearing up to capitalize on this trend, with Infinix particularly positioning itself to harness the potential of mobile gaming. The company’s recent introduction of the Infinix GT 30 Pro, a mobile gaming-focused smartphone, underscores its commitment to this market. According to Anish Kapoor, CEO of Infinix India, gaming on smartphones has transitioned from a casual activity to an integral part of life for many users.
A Generation Shift in Gaming Perception
Kapoor highlights a transformative shift in gaming culture across India. He notes, “There’s a significant leap occurring in current gaming trends, and even parents are more receptive to gaming as a legitimate activity.” He emphasizes that gaming is evolving beyond mere pastimes; it has become an aspiration for many individuals.
The last few years have witnessed a marked rise in mobile gaming, transitioning from a means of passing time to a comprehensive cultural movement. Kapoor observes that parents now actively support gaming as a viable pursuit, with players seeking more fulfilling entertainment options.
Addressing Budgetary Needs of Gamers
Infinix aims to cater to the budget-conscious segment of the smartphone market, where devices under Rs 30,000 dominate. Kapoor explains, “Data shows that 90 percent of smartphones sold in India are priced below Rs 30,000.” With this understanding, Infinix is dedicated to cultivating a gaming-friendly culture by providing smartphones that combine the features of high-end gaming devices with an affordable price structure.
Anish Kapoor, CEO, Infinix India
This focus has led to the creation of the entire GT lineup. “You don’t have to spend excessively to acquire a good gaming smartphone,” he stated. “Our approach also involves optimizing software to regulate heat, enhance frame rates, and create an immersive gaming experience.”
The newly launched Infinix GT 30 Pro symbolizes this commitment by offering a compelling mix of performance and affordability, making it suitable for both gamers and everyday users. The device comes equipped with pressure-sensitive trigger buttons, a 144Hz refresh rate display, an advanced vapor cooling system, a robust MediaTek processor, and specialized gaming accessories, reinforcing Infinix’s vision of providing a holistic platform for emerging mobile gamers.
Fostering a Vibrant Gaming Community and Supporting New Talent
Infinix distinguishes itself from competitors through its ambition to build a dedicated community for those interested in pursuing careers in mobile gaming. Kapoor indicates that the brand is actively engaging with gamers to develop products tailored to their specific needs.
“When we declare that we are designing products specifically for gamers, extensive engagement is essential. We frequently connect with this community to grasp their key requirements: what they expect from future devices and how they wish those devices to perform. Our interactions extend beyond hosting a single tournament, as we maintain ongoing dialogue and feedback channels with them,” he elaborated.
Kapoor noted the company’s efforts to penetrate Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, where a significant portion of India’s gaming population resides. “We are currently ramping up our initiatives to enhance our reach and are engaged in discussions to improve our strategies moving forward,” he remarked.
A Long-Term Commitment to Gaming
Investing in the gaming sector requires considerable resources, and Infinix sees this as a strategic, long-term commitment. Kapoor stated, “From an investment standpoint, this is indeed a high-stakes endeavor, and we intend to persist with our investments as we look to shift the gaming culture.” He aims to position Infinix as a frontrunner in the industry and believes that now is the opportune moment for substantial investment.
Notably, Infinix’s budget-friendly Note series, like the Infinix Note 50X, incorporates powerful processors and dedicated gaming features within the sub-Rs 12,000 market. “Our goal is to create options that accommodate consumers who are willing to invest Rs. 10,000 – Rs. 12,000 and guide them on a journey that could extend to Rs. 20,000 and beyond,” he noted.
Future Directions for Infinix
Kapoor’s vision for Infinix is clear: to emerge as the premier choice for Indian gamers, guiding them from their initial ₹11,000 gaming experience up to premium offerings. He explained that each new product will integrate gaming capabilities, while the brand continues to refine its XOS interface for enhanced performance. “For anyone seeking a console-like gaming experience, we will provide suitable options,” he stated.
Moreover, Infinix plans to create a comprehensive ecosystem for aspiring mobile gamers, focusing on a streamlined user interface, performance-driven features, and active community engagement. The brand’s commitment to feedback and evolution aims to ensure a gaming experience that resonates with users. “We plan to offer a range from around Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 12,000 for capable gaming devices, to the advanced GT series that provides exceptional value without excessive cost,” Kapoor concluded. Infinix is positioning itself to establish a notable presence in the mobile gaming landscape.