CHART: Apple's reign as China's top-selling smartphone brand has come to an end
Huawei is expected to reclaim the top spot in China this year.
According to market research firm Counterpoint, Apple's sales in China declined 19.1% in the first quarter of 2024, leading to a loss of market share and a shift in the rankings.
The biggest beneficiary of Apple's decline is Huawei. With a sales surge of nearly 70%, Huawei captured 15.5% of the market share, placing it in fourth position. This comeback is attributed to the success of its 5G-capable Mate 60 series and its enduring brand reputation in China.
The decline also saw Apple's position as the largest brand overtaken by both Vivo and Huawei spin-off Honor. Vivo secured 17.4% of the market share, while Honor took 16.1%, leaving Apple in third place.