Overview
Global smartwatch shipments rose 4% YoY in Q1 2026, sustaining the market’s growth trend. HLOS smartwatches grew 3% YoY, with Apple leading growth in this segment. After experiencing a shipment decline in Q4 2025, Huawei returned to growth in Q1 2026 following the Chinese government’s extension of the electronic subsidy scheme. Basic smartwatches increased 6% YoY, driven by Xiaomi Redmi Watch 5 series. Meanwhile, kids' smartwatches grew 1% YoY, marking a slight recovery after the previous quarter’s decline.
Regionally, India's local brands continued to weaken with a 16% YoY shipment drop in Q1 2026, amid competition and margin pressures, with fewer new entrants expected. OEMs are shifting toward premium segments featuring advanced sensors. China and North America led shipments with 15% and 14% YoY growth, respectively, in Q1 2026, mainly driven by Apple's refreshed portfolio. EU shipments also grew by 10% YoY, owing to rising adoption of Apple smartwatches.
