Apple’s Smartphone Shipments in China Drop 9% in Q1, Alone Among Major Brands
BEIJING, April 18 – Apple’s (AAPL.O) smartphone shipments in China fell 9% year-over-year in the first quarter, making it the only major brand to post a decline, according to data from research firm IDC.
Apple, now the fifth-largest smartphone vendor in China, shipped 9.8 million units, reducing its market share to 13.7% from 17.4% in the previous quarter. This marks the company’s seventh consecutive quarter of declining shipments in the region.
Meanwhile, market leader Xiaomi (1810.HK) recorded a 40% jump in shipments to 13.3 million units, contributing to an overall industry growth of 3.3%.
IDC analyst Will Wong attributed Apple’s underperformance to its premium pricing, which limited its eligibility for new government subsidies introduced in January. These subsidies offer consumers a 15% rebate on electronics priced under 6,000 yuan ($820), benefiting more affordable brands.
($1 = 7.2931 Chinese yuan)
