Apple Launches Exclusive Lunar New Year Sale in China with Significant Discounts
In celebration of the upcoming Lunar New Year, Apple has announced a limited-time promotional event in China, offering substantial discounts on a wide range of products. This four-day sale, running from January 24 to January 27, 2026, provides customers with the opportunity to save up to 1,000 yuan (approximately $144) on select items, depending on the product and its configuration.
Eligible Products and Discounts:
Apple’s promotion encompasses a diverse array of devices, including:
– iPhone Models: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, and iPhone 16e.
– Mac Computers: MacBook Air M4, MacBook Pro M4 and M5, Mac mini, and iMac.
– iPads: iPad Pro M5, iPad Air M3, iPad A16, and iPad mini A17 Pro.
– Apple Watch Series: Apple Watch Ultra 3, Series 11, and SE 3.
– Audio Accessories: AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, AirPods Max, and Apple Pencil Pro.
Payment Methods and Purchase Limits:
To take advantage of these discounts, customers must use specific payment options, including Alipay, WeChat Pay, and select Chinese bank cards. Each customer is limited to purchasing two discounted units per product category. Additionally, the promotion cannot be combined with other offers, such as employee, education, or business discounts. However, Apple’s Trade-In program remains available, allowing customers to exchange eligible devices for credit toward new purchases.
Strategic Timing Amid Market Dynamics:
This promotional event marks Apple’s second major discount initiative in China within a month, following a previous sale from January 4 to January 7, which offered discounts of up to 800 yuan on selected products. The timing aligns with the Lunar New Year, a period traditionally associated with increased consumer spending, providing Apple with an opportunity to boost sales and maintain its competitive edge in the Chinese market.
Market Context and Competitive Landscape:
Despite holding a leading 22% share of the Chinese smartphone market in the fourth quarter of 2025, Apple faces intensifying competition from local brands such as Huawei, Oppo, Vivo, and Xiaomi. Analysts have observed recent month-on-month sales declines in China, even with strong demand for newer iPhone models. By offering these discounts, Apple aims to capitalize on the holiday shopping surge and sustain its market momentum.
Consumer Considerations:
Customers interested in participating in this promotion should be aware of the following:
– Limited Availability: The discounts are available for a limited time, from January 24 to January 27, 2026.
– Stock Constraints: Quantities are limited in retail stores, and the promotion is subject to availability.
– Payment Requirements: Eligible payment methods include Alipay, WeChat Pay, and select Chinese bank cards.
– Purchase Limits: A maximum of two discounted units per product category per customer is enforced.
– Exclusions: The promotion cannot be combined with other discounts, such as employee, education, or business offers.
Conclusion:
Apple’s Lunar New Year sale presents a valuable opportunity for consumers in China to acquire a variety of Apple products at reduced prices. By strategically aligning this promotion with the festive season, Apple not only enhances its appeal to consumers but also reinforces its position in a highly competitive market. Customers are encouraged to act promptly, given the limited duration and availability of the offer.
