IDC: Apple is the top smartphone vendor in China for Q1 2015
Based on the latest report by International Data Corporation (IDC), Apple has overtaken Xiaomi and Samsung to be the top smartphone vendor in China for Q1 2015. All isn't rosy in the Chinese market though; more details inside.
The iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus propelled Apple to the top of the Chinese market for Q1 2015.
Two consecutive record breaking quarter results just ain't enough for Apple; IDC just released its latest report stating that Apple is the top smartphone vendor in China.
Based on IDC's report, Apple shipped a total of 14.5 million units in Q1 2015 which translates to a market share of 14.7%. The Cupertino-based company ousted Xiaomi from the throne as the latter clinched second spot with shipments of 13.5 million units. Rounding up the top five are Huawei (11.4%), Samsung (9.7%) and Lenovo (8.3%).
Strong demand for the bigger displays on the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus is cited as the main reason for Apple's growth in the Chinese market while stiffer competition in the low to mid-range market segments affected Xiaomi and the rest of the brands.
IDC also revealed a gloomy outlook; the Chinese market declined year-on-year for the first time in six years as it reached saturation point. Due to a large inventory buildup towards the end of 2014, the Chinese market contracted 8% on a quarter-on-quarter basis.
With the Chinese market reaching its saturation point, it will be more difficult for phone makers to maintain their sales momentum as the majority of consumers now own smartphones. Phone brands face an uphill task in convincing existing users and feature phone owners to upgrade to new smartphones.
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