Concerns have been rising about the demand for Apple’s iPhone 15, especially in China. This is exacerbated by a report from Bloomberg indicating disappointing sales in the country. China is a vital market for Apple, and it has traditionally dominated the premium segment. However, with the launch of the iPhone 15 series and Huawei’s Mate 60, the market dynamics are changing.
Analyst Jeff Pu has expressed concerns about the lackluster demand for iPhone 15 in China. Demand for the iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro remains relatively strong, but the standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus face weaker demand, even compared to their non-Pro counterparts from the previous year.
The competitive landscape in China is challenging for Apple, with strong competition from local manufacturers like Huawei. Huawei’s Mate 60, with its attractive features and a lower price, has gained traction in the Chinese market.
This situation poses a risk for Apple, as China accounts for a significant portion of its iPhone shipments. A small drop in market share in China could result in a substantial loss of iPhone sales. On the positive side, iPhone sales are performing well in the United States, and Apple is looking to boost premium smartphone sales in India.
As the ship drowns in China, the mobile maufacture is banking on Indian market for Apple’s growing demand in the nation. In a report, Reuters quoted Counterpoint suggesting Apple projected to account for 7 per cent of all smartphone sales in the country from July to December, up from 5 per cent in the first half of 2023.
Apple’s share of smartphone sales is expected to increase from 5% in the first half of 2023 to 7% in the second half, with a significant boost during the festive season and year-end holidays, when people tend to upgrade their phones.