China’s smartphone market posted an 8 percent year-on-year increase in October, reversing months of sluggish demand and signalling renewed consumer confidence. Data from research firm Counterpoint Research show that the growth was bolstered by sales from both foreign and domestic vendors, with a standout performance from Apple and its recently launched iPhone 17 series.
Apple’s Comeback: One-in-Four Phones Sold
Apple emerged as the biggest beneficiary, capturing roughly 25 percent of all smartphones sold in China during the month, representing a 37 percent jump in unit sales compared to October of the previous year. The iPhone 17 lineup reportedly accounted for over 80 percent of Apple’s unit volumes in the country, with the base model performing particularly well. Analysts say this mix and momentum are expected to amplify Apple’s revenue with higher average selling prices.
Domestic Brands Also Gaining Ground
While Apple grabbed headlines, Chinese smartphone manufacturers also contributed substantially to the recovery. Xiaomi retained its upward trajectory and for the first time in over a decade secured the second spot in China’s market, buoyed by its early-launch of the IX 17 series. Oppo registered approximately 19 percent growth, driven by strong uptake of its Find X9 and Reno 14 lines. The combined effect of foreign and local brands suggests that China’s smartphone ecosystem is entering a phase of cyclical recovery.
Macroeconomic and Competitive Nuances
Consumers in China have shown improved willingness to upgrade devices after a period of economic caution and hardware saturation. The smartphone bounce comes just ahead of the launch of the much-anticipated Huawei Mate 80 series scheduled for November 25, which may introduce fresh competition in the high-end segment. For Apple, the results also mark a comeback in a market where it had previously faced headwinds from local brands and a slowing upgrade cycle.
What to Monitor Next
Industry watchers will be looking at how the momentum holds through the typically heavy fourth quarter. Key indicators include whether domestic brands can sustain their growth, how price pressures or trade tensions may influence consumer behaviour, and whether Apple’s higher average selling prices translate into margin gains. Analysts also warn that execution of upcoming flagship launches by Huawei and others will test how durable this recovery is.
Implications
For Apple, strong performance in China underscores its ability to revive growth in one of the most competitive smartphone markets globally and enhances its outlook for the December quarter. For Chinese vendors, the recovery offers a chance to reclaim momentum and challenge premium tier brands. More broadly, the uptick signals to component suppliers, network operators and retail channels that the Chinese mobile market remains a major part of global smartphone dynamics.
Source: Investing
