Apple smartphone sales surge in China amid market decline

Apple posted a 23% increase in smartphone sales in China during the first nine weeks of 2026, outperforming the broader market, which continued to weaken.

According to data from research firm Counterpoint, China’s overall smartphone market fell 4% year-on-year between January and early March, as consumer demand remained sluggish despite government subsidies introduced earlier this year.

Apple’s growth was driven by e-commerce discounts and eligibility for state subsidies on its base iPhone 17 model. 

The company’s strong supply chain control has also helped it better absorb rising memory chip costs compared to rivals.

While Apple held prices steady, several Android manufacturers—including OPPO and vivo—have raised prices on certain models to offset higher component costs.

Analysts say these moves may also help gauge consumer response ahead of upcoming product launches.

Meanwhile, Huawei could benefit from its reliance on domestic suppliers, which typically offer lower costs than international chipmakers. 

This may give the company an advantage in the low- to mid-range smartphone segment.

Despite Apple’s strong start, analysts expect the Chinese smartphone market to remain under pressure through the spring months. 

Some recovery could come in June during China’s mid-year “618” shopping festival, when promotional activity typically boosts sales.

However, ongoing memory chip cost pressures are expected to continue throughout 2026, forcing smartphone makers to balance pricing, margins, and demand in a challenging market environment.