Apple captures 25% of China’s smartphone market in October amid iPhone 17 demand

Apple has surged to a quarter of China’s smartphone market in October, as strong demand for the new iPhone 17 series drives record sales and challenges domestic competitors.

Apple’s iPhone accounted for one in every four smartphones sold in China in October, driven by strong demand for the new iPhone 17 series, according to data from research firm Counterpoint. Sales of Apple devices in the country jumped 37% year-over-year, marking the company’s highest market share since 2022.

China’s overall smartphone sales grew 8% compared to last year, fueled by both Apple and domestic manufacturers. All three iPhone 17 variants posted solid mid-to-high double-digit growth, led by the base model. New iPhone models accounted for more than 80% of Apple’s total unit sales, signaling strong momentum heading into the December quarter.

Domestic brands also saw significant gains. Xiaomi rose to the No. 2 spot in China for the first time in over a decade, following an early launch of its 17 series. Oppo reported a 19% increase in smartphone sales in October, led by the Find X9 and Reno 14 series. Analysts note that upcoming launches, including Huawei’s Mate 80 series, could affect market dynamics, but Apple currently shows no signs of slowing.

Counterpoint senior analyst Ivan Lam highlighted that rising average selling prices (ASPs) could further boost Apple’s revenue, and that the company’s momentum points to a record-setting December quarter.