Apple Inc.'s sales in China plummeted by 25% in the fourth quarter of 2024, with Huawei just one step away from taking the top spot!
16/01/2025
GMT Eight
According to data from research company Canalys, in the fourth quarter of 2024, Apple Inc. (AAPL.US) saw a sharp 25% drop in smartphone shipments in China, facing increasing pressure in one of its largest global markets due to Huawei's recovery.
According to data released by Canalys on Thursday, Apple Inc. shipped 13.1 million units in China during this period, barely maintaining market leadership with a 17% market share.
Canalys data shows that Huawei also held a 17% market share, shipping 12.9 million units, tying for market leadership with Apple Inc.
Huawei's fourth quarter shipments grew by 24%, becoming a particularly strong challenger since returning to the high-end market in August 2023 with locally manufactured chipsets.
In the face of increasing competitive pressure, Apple Inc. has taken rare discount measures to stimulate sales. The company conducted a four-day promotion in China from January 4th to 7th, offering a maximum discount of 500 yuan (68.5 US dollars) on the iPhone 16 models through official channels.
Major e-commerce platforms in China have also followed suit, launching their own promotional activities. Alibaba Group Holding Limited Sponsored ADR's Tmall announced that the iPhone 15 series devices could enjoy a discount of up to 1,000 yuan (137 US dollars).
Canalys analyst Amber Liu stated, "Although Apple Inc. and its iPhone 15 series maintained a leading position in the fourth quarter, they are facing increasing pressure from domestic flagship devices."
In addition to seasonal promotions, Apple Inc. is enhancing its competitive position and user retention rate in the high-end market in China through improving the retail experience, trade-in programs, and expanding interest-free installment payment plans."
China's smartphone annual shipment in 2024 is expected to increase by 4% to 285 million units.