Apple Reclaims China’s Smartphone Crown with Strategic iPhone Discounts
Apple''s iPhone surged back to the top of China''s smartphone market in May, marking its strongest two-month performance since the pandemic began. Counterpoint Research data reveals a 15% year-over-year global sales increase for April-May, driven primarily by China and the US, with notable gains in Japan, India, and the Middle East.
The resurgence came at a cost—literally. Fierce competition from Huawei and other local brands forced Apple to slash iPhone 16 prices by up to 2,530 yuan ($351), a tactical move that reignited demand. While these discounts delivered immediate results, questions linger about Apple''s long-term strategy in China''s volatile mobile market.