Amazon.in Best in Tech Survey Reveals AI and Performance Expectations for Smartphone Buyers

Amazon.in has released the findings of its inaugural Best in Tech Survey, conducted in July 2026 with over 40,000 responses across major consumer electronics categories. The findings provide key insights into consumer preferences ahead of the second edition of the Best in Tech Awards in September 2026.

While artificial intelligence has become a baseline expectation influencing purchase decisions for 82% of smartphone buyers, core fundamentals such as performance, battery life, and camera quality remain the primary drivers. Performance and speed lead purchase considerations at 87%, followed closely by battery life at 79% and camera quality at 77%.

When it comes to artificial intelligence, consumers value practical, everyday assistance rather than just hype. Contextual assistance—such as features that understand screen activity to suggest instant actions—is the most desired capability at 25%, followed by generative photo editing at 18%, visual search at 17%, and adaptive battery management at 11%. Meanwhile, battery life continues to be both a top priority and a major pain point, cited by 22% of users as the primary issue they want fixed on their current phones.

The survey also highlights that buyers are taking a research-led approach to upgrades. The 25,000 to 50,000 Rupee price range is the most popular segment, accounting for 42% of prospective buyers, while nearly half of all respondents plan to upgrade their devices within three months. Furthermore, reviews and ratings outweigh price and deals at the point of decision, with 47% relying on them compared to 35% who focus primarily on discounts.