China’s smartphone sales were up 8% in October, driven by Apple’s 37% year-on-year (YoY) growth, according to preliminary figures from Counterpoint Technology Market Research’s Market Pulse Monthly Smartphone Sell-Through Tracker.

“The iPhone 17 series continues to deliver for Apple, with the base and Pro models growing fastest,” said Senior Analyst Ivan Lam. “Share of new iPhone models is extremely high, at over 80% of unit sales, so we are likely to see growth amplified as rising ASPs (average selling prices) push the top line higher.”

It is the best ever start to a December quarter for Apple, with total sell-through far surpassing its previous peak in October 2021. One in four smartphones sold in China during October was an iPhone – a milestone hit only once before, in 2022, when Apple had fewer rivals in the premium segment.

OPPO is punching above its weight, being the second biggest driver of domestic smartphone growth on the success of its flagship Find X9 series, which boasts excellent cameras and battery life, as well as its Reno 14 series devices targeting younger users.

Xiaomi’s early launch of the Xiaomi 17 series, coupled with its broad portfolio, allowed it to capture the No. 2 spot domestically for the first time in over a decade.

Momentum continues to be with Apple moving into November and is in line with the brand hitting its best-ever December quarter. “There is always some risk, especially with the much-expected Huawei Mate 80 series launching on November 25,” said Lam. “But there’s a lot of momentum behind Apple at this point. There is not much tapering to indicate a steep drop off.”

By: DocMemory
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