Apple’s iPhone 17 Series Drives Remarkable Growth in China’s Smartphone Market
In the final quarter of 2025, Apple achieved a significant milestone in China’s smartphone market, countering a general industry downturn with a remarkable 28% increase in iPhone shipments compared to the same period in 2024. This surge propelled Apple to the forefront of the Chinese market, capturing a 21.8% share, a notable rise from 16.8% in the previous year.
iPhone 17 Series: A Catalyst for Growth
The success is largely attributed to the iPhone 17 series, which resonated strongly with Chinese consumers. The Pro models, featuring a distinctive new camera design, and the base variants, offering double the storage of their predecessors at the same price point, garnered widespread acclaim. This strategic enhancement in features and value proposition played a pivotal role in boosting Apple’s market presence.
Challenges with the iPhone Air
Conversely, the iPhone Air faced a tepid market response. Its delayed launch and design compromises aimed at achieving ultra-thinness resulted in a modest single-digit market share. Despite this, the iPhone Air represents a significant step in exploring ultra-thin designs and the broader adoption of eSIM technology in the Chinese market.
Annual Performance and Market Dynamics
Over the entire year, Apple experienced a 7.5% growth in shipments, securing the second position in the Chinese smartphone market with a 16.7% share. Huawei led with 16.9%, while Vivo followed closely at 16.4%. This performance underscores Apple’s resilience and strategic acumen in navigating a competitive and evolving market landscape.
Strategic Implications and Future Outlook
Apple’s ability to reverse a prolonged sales slump in China highlights the effectiveness of its product innovation and market strategies. The iPhone 17 series’ success underscores the importance of aligning product offerings with consumer preferences and market demands. As Apple continues to refine its product lineup and explore new technologies, its trajectory in the Chinese market will be closely watched by industry observers and competitors alike.
