Apple Inc. (AAPL.O) has regained the top spot in smartphone sales in China in May 2025, according to new data from Counterpoint Research.
The company’s global iPhone sales rose by 15% year-on-year during April and May.
Marking Apple’s strongest two-month performance since the COVID-19 pandemic.
iPhone Sales in Key Markets: U.S. and China
This global growth was largely fueled by a resurgence in Apple’s two largest markets: China and the United States.
Analysts attribute this momentum to strategic pricing, renewed demand, and successful marketing campaigns in these regions.
“Q2 iPhone performance looks promising at the moment, but as always, swings either way are dictated by two markets – the U.S. and China,” said Ivan Lam, Senior Analyst at Counterpoint Research.
Double-Digit Growth in India, Japan, and the Middle East
Beyond its core markets, Apple saw double-digit sales growth in Japan, India, and Middle Eastern countries.
Highlighting the brand’s resilient global demand and expanding presence in emerging smartphone markets.
Apple’s Strategy: Price Cuts Amid Rising Competition in China
In China, Apple continues to face intensifying competition from domestic brands like Huawei and Xiaomi. To maintain market share, the tech giant offered significant discounts on its latest models.
In May, some e-commerce platforms slashed prices by up to 2,530 yuan (approx. $351) on iPhone 16 models, making them more accessible to a wider consumer base.
iPhone Sales Globally: Rise in Chinese Shipments
Data from the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT) showed that shipments of foreign-branded phones, including iPhones, increased slightly to 3.52 million units in April.
Compared to 3.50 million units in the same month last year — an indicator of steady demand recovery.
