Market Analysis

Image Credit: Reuters

Apple's smartphone shipments in China dropped by 9% in the first quarter compared to the same period last year, marking it as the only major manufacturer to experience a decline, according to IDC research data.

Apple, ranked fifth in China's smartphone market, saw its shipments fall to 9.8 million units, capturing a 13.7% market share, down from 17.4% the previous quarter. This marks the seventh consecutive quarter of decline for the company.

In contrast, market leader Xiaomi saw a 40% surge in shipments, reaching 13.3 million units, while the overall smartphone market grew by 3.3%.

IDC analyst Will Wong noted that Apple's premium pricing strategy has hindered its ability to benefit from new government subsidies introduced in January, which helped stimulate growth in the first quarter.

The government subsidies offer a 15% refund for smartphones and other consumer electronics with a price tag under 6,000 yuan ($820). 

($1 = 7.2931 Chinese yuan)

Paraphrasing text from "Reuters" all rights reserved by the original author