Updated
Updated · 9to5Mac · Oct 1
Apple Grabs 33% China Share as iPhone 18 Pro Sales Rise 12%
Updated
Updated · 9to5Mac · Oct 1

Apple Grabs 33% China Share as iPhone 18 Pro Sales Rise 12%

3 articles · Updated · 9to5Mac · Oct 1

Summary

  • Counterpoint said Apple became China’s best-selling smartphone brand in Week 38 after the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max posted 12% year-over-year sales growth in their first three days.
  • A delayed base iPhone 18 launch helped steer some buyers to the premium models, while Apple’s pricing looked relatively attractive as component costs pushed up prices across the high-end market.
  • Retailers and carriers also provided aggressive channel support through promotions and advertising, amplifying the launch impact.
  • The surge reversed a broader slump: China’s new smartphone sales had fallen 17% year over year since July before the iPhone 18 Pro release lifted Apple to the top spot.

Insights

Can Apple's highly anticipated iPhone Duo foldable permanently dethrone Huawei in China's fiercely competitive premium tech market?
Why are Chinese consumers rushing to buy Apple's most expensive iPhones while the country's overall smartphone market continues to plummet?