According to a recent report from market research firm Counterpoint ResearchApple experienced a significant decline in iPhone sales in China in the first quarter of this year, and is facing robust competition from domestic giant Huawei.
Counterpoint’s data revealed a 19.1% decrease in iPhone sales during the initial three months of the year, while Huawei, a company based in Shenzhen, China, witnessed a remarkable 69.7% surge in smartphone sales during the same period.
The resurgence in Huawei’s smartphone business was largely attributed to the release of the Mate 60, equipped with a high-end chip supporting advanced 5G connectivity.
According to Counterpoint’s research note on Tuesday, Huawei ranks as the fourth-largest smartphone maker in China, intensifying pressure on Apple, which holds the third position.
Apple’s earlier success in China highlighted its ability to appeal to consumers globally, not solely due to its solid technology but also its premium and luxurious brand image. Moreover, Apple strategically expanded its presence in the Chinese market by partnering with China Mobile, the world’s largest telecommunications provider, back in 2013. This collaboration enabled Apple to increase its presence in the Chinese market, competing more fiercely with Android-based smartphones.
While Apple held the top position in the first quarter of 2023, it experienced a year-over-year decline of over 19% in the first quarter of 2024, slipping to the third position in the market. Despite this setback, Apple’s CEO Tim Cook expressed optimism about China’s long-term prospects during a recent investor call, emphasizing the company’s enduring commitment to the region.
