The Chinese smartphone market saw negligible growth during the April–June months with a mere 1% increase in total shipments compared to the same period last year. According to the latest Counterpoint Research report, Huawei and Apple are expected to lead all companies in terms of year-over-year growth.
Counterpoint Research China Smartphone Weekly Sales Tracker
Huawei is expected to lead all brands with 12% growth in shipments. The figure is mainly attributed to strong demand for its devices during the annual 618 shopping festival as well as the ongoing government subsidy program.
The national subsidy program covers smartphones, tablets, smart bands, and smartwatches priced below CNY 6,000 ($820) and offers a one-time discount of up to CNY 500 ($68). The one underlying issue is that the program could be scaled back in the second half of the year.
Apple is the only other top-five brand that’s expected to see positive shipments for the Q2 period, with an estimated 8% growth. Apple saw increased demand for its iPhone 16 series in May thanks to discounts just ahead of China’s 618 shopping festival.