October was a month with unusually clear winners for the Chinese smartphone market. The iPhone 17 series propelled Apple to sales figures not seen in years. New data from Counterpoint reveals the extent of interest in the latest models and their impact on the overall market.
The Chinese market is considered particularly competitive, as many strong manufacturers are vying for market share. Success rarely happens by chance. This makes Apple's leap in October all the more remarkable. The report details just how strong the demand for the iPhone 17 really was and what role local competitors played.
Strong sales boost thanks to the iPhone 17 series
Apple increased iPhone sales in China by 37 percent in October compared to the previous year. Nearly a quarter of all smartphones sold that month were Apple products – a figure last seen in 2022, when competition in the premium segment was less intense.
The iPhone 17 series was the primary driver of this increase. The iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max saw mid- to high-double-digit growth. The standard model experienced the most significant increase. According to Ivan Lam of Counterpoint , the new models accounted for more than 80 percent of Apple's total sales. This marks Apple's strongest start to a December quarter ever and clearly surpasses its previous peak from October 2021.
Keeping an eye on risks and competition
Despite the strong figures, Counterpoint sees some risk in the market. The Huawei Mate 80 series launches on November 25th and could shake up the high-end segment. According to Lam, however, there are currently no indications of a significant decline for Apple. The momentum remains stable.
The overall market also benefits.
It wasn't just Apple that had a good month. The entire Chinese smartphone market grew by 8 percent in October compared to the previous year. Local brands like Xiaomi also contributed to this growth, with Xiaomi climbing back into second place for the first time in over ten years.
Different reactions to different models
The report paints a mixed picture for Apple. While the iPhone 17 series is achieving new record highs in China, the response to the iPhone Air remains rather lukewarm. This pattern is also evident in other markets and stands in stark contrast to the success of the current flagship models.
The iPhone 17 brings new strength to the Chinese market
The latest data clearly demonstrates the significant impact of the iPhone 17 on the Chinese market. Apple is achieving sales figures not seen in years and is entering the next quarter with considerable momentum. Despite upcoming competition, the iPhone 17 series remains the central driver of this success, ensuring that Apple is once again a leading player in the world's most important smartphone market. (Image: Shutterstock / Wongsakorn 2468)
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