Budget 2026: The Union Budget 2026 has been presented, and its impact will be clearly visible on the pockets of common people in the coming months.

Budget 2026: The Union Budget 2026 has been presented, and its impact on ordinary people's pockets will be clearly visible in the coming months. Significant changes are expected, particularly in the consumer technology and home electronics sectors. However, these changes will not be immediate; they will gradually impact the market. The biggest reason for this is the government's relief on certain components used in manufacturing.

What will change with the change in import duty?

The government has not announced any major direct customs duty cuts on products like smartphones, laptops, tablets, and wearables in Budget 2026. This means it would be unfair to expect an immediate drop in the prices of these products.

However, duty exemptions have been granted on certain parts used in household appliances like microwaves. This means that microwave oven prices may see a slight decline in the future.

Budget and premium smartphones

If you're considering buying a new smartphone, don't get your hopes up. Budget 2026 offers no direct price relief for either budget smartphones or premium flagship phones. However, in the second half of the year, companies may begin adding more features to budget phones or offer slight price cuts. Meanwhile, premium smartphones will remain as expensive as ever.

Laptops and PCs

There are no direct indications of a price cut on laptops and PCs. However, the government's new manufacturing initiatives will encourage companies to increase local production. This could result in users receiving better specifications and features at the same price in the future.

Hope for smart TVs and home electronics

Relief has been provided on components used in smart TVs, local appliances, and home electronics. This offers a good chance of price reductions in this segment. While it's not yet clear whether companies will pass these benefits directly to consumers, the potential for price reductions appears to be greatest here.

Focus of the AVCG sector and the Orange Economy

The AVCG (Animation, Visual Effects, Comics, and Gaming) sector is expected to receive a boost under the Orange Economy vision outlined by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. This could encourage companies manufacturing gaming accessories and peripherals in India, making these products available at more affordable prices.