Apple Tops China’s Smartphone Market in Q4 2025 With iPhone 17 Series Surge

Apple has once again secured the number one spot in China’s smartphone market, achieving a 22% share in Q4 2025, according to Counterpoint Research. This marks another milestone for the Cupertino giant in its largest market outside the US, driven largely by the success of the iPhone 17 lineup.

The iPhone 17 Pro models, featuring a redesigned camera system, and the standard versions, which doubled storage compared to last year at the same price, were well received by Chinese consumers. However, the iPhone Air, launched later than the rest of the series, managed only a modest single‑digit share.

Counterpoint analyst Ivan Lam noted that the iPhone Air’s delayed release and compromises between thinness and features slowed its initial momentum. Still, he highlighted its importance as Apple’s first step into ultra‑thin design and its potential impact on the domestic eSIM smartphone market.

Apple’s strong quarter came against the backdrop of a struggling Chinese smartphone industry. Shipments fell 1.6% year‑on‑year in Q4 2025 and 0.6% across the full year. Apart from Q1, which saw a temporary boost from government subsidies, every quarter recorded declines.

Other Brands in Q4 2025

• Oppo ranked second, posting 15% growth thanks to the Reno series and new launches like the Find X9 and OnePlus 15.

• Huawei led the market for the full year despite weaker sales in late 2025. Price cuts on mid‑ to high‑end models helped sustain its lead, while Mate 80’s late release hurt Q4. Sales rebounded in early 2026 with fresh subsidies.

• Vivo saw traction with its iQoo 15 powered by Qualcomm’s latest flagship chip.

• Xiaomi gained momentum with the 17 series, especially the Pro models featuring a distinctive rear display. The 17 Ultra launched two months earlier than its predecessor, signaling a faster flagship cycle.

• Honor maintained steady demand with the X70 and 400 series, while the new WIN series drew attention for advanced heat management.