Realme, a popular Chinese smartphone manufacturer, has confirmed plans to join the U.S. market this year as part of a global expansion strategy.
Realme, a popular Chinese smartphone manufacturer, has confirmed ambitions to join the U.S. market this year as an expansion strategy. Originally a part of Oppo, Realme was spun out in 2018 as an online-only brand in India to compete with the likes of Xiaomi, which was running away with the smartphone market in the nation with its value-for-money products. Since then, it has extended to China and Europe, with plans to enter the European market in 2019.
Few Chinese smartphone firms have impacted the United States, where Samsung and Apple continue to reign supreme. OnePlus, a sister brand of Realme and part of the same BBK Electronics umbrella is one of the more famous brands on that list. The Lenovo-owned Motorola also sells phones in the U.S., as does TCL, although neither of their market shares is much to write home about.
In an interview with Android Authority this week, Realme vice-president and worldwide business head Madhav Sheth stated that the company would reach the U.S. market in 2022. However, those looking for a Realme smartphone will have to wait a little longer since the business has no plans to introduce its devices to the United States anytime soon. Sheth wouldn’t say what the company’s short-term aspirations for the U.S. market are, but it would start with I.T. and AIoT devices.
Realme’s Obstacles in the United States
For folks wondering what exactly Realme might have in store for American buyers, the company’s portfolio in its existing markets could offer a hint. Realme offers a full array of electronics and digital accessories in India, China, and Europe. Some of them could make it to the U.S. in the coming months. Televisions, power banks, streaming T.V. sticks, wireless earbuds, Bluetooth speakers, fitness bands, smartwatches, tablets, laptops, robot vacuum cleaners, and other products are among the company’s offerings. When the business officially debuts the brand in the United States, at least some of these could end up there.
Realme’s plan to join the U.S. market comes when Sino-American relations are at an all-time low. IN RECENT YEARS, the U.S. has imposed tough restrictions on Chinese I.T. companies, citing national security concerns and alleged abuses of intellectual property rights. Last month, the Biden Administration placed restrictions on seven Chinese biotech companies over allegations of human rights violations against the country’s Muslim Uighur minority. With so much opposition, it will be interesting to see how Realme approaches carving out a niche in the world’s largest and most lucrative market.
