Indian brand AI+ Smartphone on Tuesday announced its entry into Nepal, marking its first overseas launch in partnership with CG Mobile, the smartphone division of Nepal’s Chaudhary Group.
In a statement, the company said it has chosen Nepal as a “natural first step” in taking its Indian-engineered platform abroad. AI+ devices run on NxtQuantum OS, a mobile operating system developed in India with a stated focus on privacy and data governance.
According to AI+, the OS is designed with a consent-first approach, offering a privacy dashboard and simplified controls for app permissions.
CG Mobile will handle distribution, retail activation and after-sales service through its nationwide network. Madhav Sheth, CEO, Ai+ Smartphones confirmed the tie-up in a social media post, calling it a step to bring new technology choices to Nepalese consumers.
“Ai+ Smartphones is expanding beyond India with CG Mobiles, entering Nepal as our next milestone. This marks a significant step in taking India’s tech exports global, carrying forward the vision of self-reliant technology into new markets,” he said.
Ai+ Smartphones is expanding beyond India with CG Mobiles, entering Nepal as our next milestone. This marks a significant step in taking India’s tech exports global, carrying forward the vision of self-reliant technology into new markets.#AiPlusSmartphone @aiplus_nepal… pic.twitter.com/ucK1nabkVr
— Madhav Sheth (@MadhavSheth1) August 27, 2025
Two models are expected to be introduced at launch — the AI+ Nova 5G and the AI+ Pulse. The Nova 5G features a 6.7-inch HD+ display with 120Hz refresh rate, a Unisoc T8200 processor, 50-megapixel rear camera, 5,000mAh battery and 5G support. The Pulse, positioned in the 4G segment, carries the same battery capacity and camera specifications but with a Unisoc T615 processor and a 90Hz refresh rate. Both run on NxtQuantum OS based on Android 15.
Pricing and handset details have not yet been officially disclosed, though industry reports indicate the devices are likely to fall in the NPR 15,000–20,000 bracket.
Smartphone penetration in Nepal
The foray comes at a time when Nepal’s smartphone market has been registering strong growth. According to IDC, shipments in Nepal stood at 548,000 units in the April–June quarter of 2024, up 77.8 per cent compared to the same period a year earlier.
Chinese brands dominate the market with Xiaomi, Transsion, Samsung, Realme and Vivo together accounting for the largest share. Transsion led the entry-level segment while Xiaomi topped the low-end category. Samsung was the leader in mid-range models, with Galaxy A15 among the most shipped.
Smartphone penetration in Nepal has risen steadily, reaching about 73 per cent by 2021, according to government census data. Mobile broadband subscriptions have crossed 31 million, and over 96 per cent of internet users in the country access services through smartphones.
Industry insiders say the entry of AI+ will test whether an Indian-engineered handset, marketed on claims of security and minimal bloatware, can find space in a competitive market dominated by established players.
AI+ has said Nepal is the beginning of its international expansion, though no other markets have been confirmed.
