Realme

Overview

Realme is a Chinese consumer electronics brand specializing in smartphones, AIoT devices, fitness trackers, smartwatches, and displays. It targets budget and mid-range segments with devices featuring fast charging, 5G connectivity, and youthful designs, operating in over 27 markets including Asia, Europe, and Australia.²³

History

Realme was founded on May 4, 2018, by Li Bingzhong (Sky Li), former Oppo vice president, as a spinoff from Oppo, part of BBK Electronics.² It rapidly expanded from India to global markets, achieving 35 million smartphone users and 1 million AIoT sales by June 2020, and ranking 7th in global smartphone shipments in Q1 2020.² In April 2023, BBK Electronics defunct, leaving Oppo as direct parent alongside Vivo and OnePlus; Realme was fully integrated into Oppo as a sub-brand on January 7, 2026.²

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Realme products are primarily manufactured in China and India through outsourced facilities, leveraging Oppo's supply chain as a subsidiary.²³

Notable Products

• Realme GT series - Flagship smartphones with gaming processors and high-refresh displays.
• Realme Narzo series - Performance-oriented phones for youth with fast charging.
• Realme C series - Budget smartphones offering basic 5G and long battery life.
• Realme Watch - Affordable smartwatches with fitness tracking features.
• Realme Band - Entry-level fitness trackers with health monitoring.
• Realme TV - Budget smart TVs with Android-based interface.

Reputation

Realme is praised by enthusiasts for delivering high-spec smartphones like fast charging and 5G at budget prices, appealing to Gen-Z and emerging markets.³ Professionals note its rapid growth to top 10 global ranking but criticize software bloat in Realme UI and average camera quality compared to rivals.²³ Integration into Oppo in 2026 raises concerns over reduced independence in innovation.²