Apple Brings Live Video Shopping to India: How It Works

Apple just rolled out its live video shopping feature in India, and honestly, I’m kind of surprised it took this long. The service, called Shop with a Specialist over Video, originally launched in the U.S. in 2023. Now India has become the first country outside the United States to get it.

How It Works

When you visit Apple’s official online store in India, there’s a new prompt that lets you tap in and talk to an Apple team member over a secure video call. It’s not a two-way call though. Only the Apple Specialist shows up on camera; you just use your mic to talk.

You can ask them anything. iPhone comparisons, trade-in values, EMI plans, how to choose between two models, whatever you’re stuck on. They’ll walk you through it while you browse the site in real time.

It works on any device with a solid internet connection, and the session runs in English. So, whether you’re using an iPad, Android phone, or even a crusty old PC, you’re good as long as your internet holds up.

Timing and Availability

Apple’s video shopping crew is live Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. IST. No app or special booking required. Just hit the site during those hours and you’ll see the option to connect.

Why Now, and Why India?

This one’s pretty telling. Apple’s clearly putting more chips on the table when it comes to India. They opened those flashy new stores in Mumbai and Delhi last year, and this move feels like a digital extension of that physical push.

It’s also Apple doing what Apple does best, trying to control the buying experience from start to finish. India’s retail setup is still super fragmented, so giving customers a direct line to trained Apple staff (even if just in English for now) helps tighten up their sales game.

Sure, it’s not the same as chatting with someone in person, but it’s a step toward blending that in-store vibe with the convenience of shopping from your couch. Whether they eventually expand it to other languages or time slots is anyone’s guess, but this feels like a pretty calculated first move.

Would real-time video help you settle on your next iPhone? Or maybe you’d prefer a quick chat instead of talking? Either way, drop your thoughts below.

Don’t miss these related reads:

• Best iPhone in 2025: Which iPhone should you buy?
• How to choose which Apple Watch to buy in 2025
• Which MacBook should you buy in 2025? Expert picks & tips!