Kozhikode: The sale of digital gadgets like laptop, tablet and smart phones multiplied as the schools in Kerala switched to online teaching system due to COVID lockdown. Following this, the parents of students are facing an additional expense in the new academic year unlike previous years. However, the market of digital gadgets became active again.

The demand for gadgets increased after the government informed that online classes will start from June 1 onwards. The parents are compelled to buy additional laptop or desktop computer if there are more students at home. Some schools also have directed the parents to arrange facilities for online class.

"My children are studying in 9th and Plus Two. If they have online class at the same time, it will be difficult for them to share one computer. So, we are buying one more laptop," said Nallalam native Divya.

Mobile phone and tablet priced between Rs 10,000 and Rs 20,000 are in highest demand. Laptops priced Rs 20,000-30,000 are sold mostly. The sale of Web camera and WiFi modem also multiplied.

Some shops offer loan facilities for buying new gadgets and it is very helpful for parents. Also the number of people who repair old gadgets increased. The customers mostly buy basic models with voice and video call facilities, the merchants said.

Apart from educational institutions, various offices also started work from home system. With this, office meetings are conducted through mobile phones and laptops. This also boosted the gadget market. However, the merchants are concerned if stopping imports from China would affect the market.