Apple iPhone Shipments in China Rise 20 Percent in Q1 2026
Apple shipments in China rose 20 percent in the first quarter despite a 4 percent market decline. Rising chip costs pressured rivals while Huawei saw growth.
APPLE INC recorded a 20% surge in iPhone shipments in China during the first quarter of 2026, marking the strongest growth among major vendors despite an overall market decline. Total smartphone shipments in the world's largest mobile market fell by 4% between January and March, a drop attributed to rising memory chip prices and supply chain disruptions. However, both Huawei and Apple bucked the trend, reporting shipment increases of 2% and 20% respectively.
Ivan Lam, a senior analyst at Counterpoint Research, noted that Apple's perceived value remains a key driver for consumers in the region.
As most rivals raise prices, Apple stands out for value, with Chinese consumers knowing its products last at least three years.
Huawei maintained the top spot in the market with a 20% share, supported by strong demand across its high-end and budget ranges, including the Enjoy 90 series. Apple followed in second place with a 19% share. Meanwhile, XIAOMI CORP-CLASS B saw its shipments plunge by 35%, falling to sixth place. Lam attributed the sharp decline to a high base effect from the previous year, when the company benefited from aggressive price cuts and government subsidies.
Other major manufacturers reported mixed results. Vivo saw a 2% rise in shipments, buoyed by strong sales during the Lunar New Year holiday, while Oppo and Honor reported declines of 5% and 3% respectively. Many vendors have raised prices for budget handsets to protect margins against elevated component costs. Looking ahead to the second quarter, Lam expects further headwinds as brands continue to adjust pricing.
However, we expect Apple and Huawei to fare relatively better, with Huawei potentially seeing further shipment growth driven by solid demand for its lower-end devices.
