Mainland China’s smartphone market rebounded in 2024, shipping 285 million units, a 4% year-on-year growth after two years of decline, according to Canalys. vivo led the market with a 17% share (49.3 million units), followed by Huawei with 46 million units, achieving 37% growth. Apple, OPPO and HONOR each held 15% market share.
In Q4 2024, shipments grew 5% year-on-year to 77.4 million units. Apple led the quarter but faced a 25% drop in shipments due to intense competition, while Huawei and vivo followed with 17% market shares. Xiaomi ranked fourth, showing the highest annual growth (29%) and OPPO ranked fifth with 18% growth.
Technological innovations like GenAI, in-house chips and foldable designs boosted high-end demand, while affordable, durable devices drove mass-market upgrades. vivo capitalized on channel strategies, and Xiaomi achieved consistent market share growth through ecosystem synergies. Looking ahead to 2025, Canalys predicts over 290 million shipments, supported by government subsidies, improving economic conditions and product innovations like longer battery life, lighter designs and enhanced AI systems.
Source: Canalys
