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Insights Category: Press releases

Survey: 77% of Smart Device Users in India Consider Chipsets Highly Important in Shaping Experience

  • Smart device users rate performance (76%), graphics and gaming capabilities (66%), and 5G connectivity (62%) as the top three features dependent on chipset capabilities.
  • The awareness level for MediaTek’s chipsets is 61% across smart device users in India, driven by the brand’s leadership position in smartphones as well as in other categories like smart TVs and smart speakers.

New Delhi, Beijing, Buenos Aires, Fort Collins, Hong Kong, London, Seoul, Taipei, Tokyo – January 3, 2024

As the smartphone market in India matures, consumers are becoming increasingly knowledgeable about the smart devices they own. They make well-informed decisions when purchasing smartphones, crucial devices for their daily activities. Recognizing the significance of chipsets as key differentiating factors in smart devices, Counterpoint Research conducted a consumer survey in India. The focus was to comprehend the awareness and importance of chipsets among people in India, a market that ranks as the second largest for smartphones globally and is one of the fastest-growing markets for various smart devices.

The survey revealed that 77% of the country’s smart device users consider chipset capabilities highly important in influencing their device experience. The survey also shed light on the significance of chipsets across different smart devices such as smartphones, earphones/TWS, smart TVs and laptops.

Many of the advanced features we find in our current smart devices are enabled and enhanced through the evolution of the underlying chipsets. These chipsets shape consumer experiences and help OEMs differentiate their offerings at a time when we are transitioning to next-generation 5G networks. According to the survey respondents, performance (76%), graphics and gaming capabilities (66%), and 5G connectivity (62%) are the top three features dependent on chipset capabilities.

In terms of brands, the survey showed that 61% of the respondents were aware of MediaTek’s chipsets across smart devices in India, driven by the company’s leadership position in smartphones as well as in categories like smart TVs and smart speakers. MediaTek was the world’s top smartphone chipset brand in Q3 2023 with a 31% market share, according to Counterpoint’s latest Global smartphone AP Shipments. The Taiwan-based company develops systems-on-chips (SoCs) for mobile, home entertainment, connectivity and IoT devices, and is also involved in other key technology areas.

Source: Counterpoint Research Consumer Survey Insights, December 2023

Commenting on the importance of chipsets and MediaTek’s role in the chipset ecosystem, Research Director Tarun Pathak said, “For any electronics device, we believe that personalized experiences will be the real differentiator for consumers going forward. This means deeper integration of advanced technologies leveraging artificial intelligence for a seamless, reliable and personalized experience with a relentless focus on ultra-fast connectivity. Therefore, companies like MediaTek are well positioned in this space as the tech industry shifts its focus from smart connected devices to smartly connected devices.”

Methodology: This Counterpoint Research survey was commissioned by MediaTek to understand chipset awareness among smart device users in India. With a sample size of more than 1,200 respondents, the survey was conducted online across India. We expect the survey results to have a statistical precision of +/- 4%.

Background

Counterpoint Technology Market Research is a global research firm specializing in products in the TMT (technology, media, and telecom) industry. It services major technology and financial firms with a mix of monthly reports, customized projects, and detailed analyses of the mobile and technology markets. Its key analysts are seasoned experts in the high-tech industry.

Follow Counterpoint Research

press(at)counterpointresearch.com

Global Premium Smartphone Market Continues to See Record Sales in 2023

  • As against the decline projected for the overall global smartphone market this year, the premium (wholesale price ≥$600) market’s sales are likely to grow 6% YoY in 2023.
  • Apple continues to be the premium market’s undisputed leader. However, compared to 2022, its share has declined this year.
  • China, India, MEA and Latin America are likely to set a new record for premium market sales in 2023, with India being the fastest-growing premium market globally.

Seoul, Beijing, Buenos Aires, Hong Kong, London, New Delhi, San Diego – January 02, 2024

The global premium smartphone (wholesale price ≥$600) market’s sales are likely to grow 6% YoY in 2023 to hit a new record, according to Counterpoint Research’s Market Pulse Service. This contrasts with the decline projected for the overall global smartphone market this year. The premium segment is likely to capture close to one-fourth of the global smartphone market sales and 60% of the revenues in 2023. Over the past few years, the premium segment has emerged as a growth area in the otherwise weak market.

Global Smartphone Markets Premium Segment Sales Share
Source: Counterpoint Research’s Market Pulse Service

Note: Sales here represent sell-through; Q4 2023 data is preliminary

Commenting on the premium market’s growth, Senior Analyst Varun Mishra said, “There has been a shift in consumer buying patterns in the smartphone market. Considering the importance a smartphone holds, consumers are willing to spend more to get a high-quality device that they can use for a longer period.  Owning the latest and greatest flagships has also become a status symbol for many consumers, especially in emerging markets where they are jumping directly from the mid-price band to the premium band. Further, these devices are increasingly becoming more affordable due to promotion seasons and financing options.”

Apple continues to be the premium market’s undisputed leader. However, compared to 2022, its share has declined this year. This is mainly due to Huawei’s resurrection in China driven by the Mate 60 series. Samsung has also gained share driven by its S23 and Foldable series. Foldables have also emerged as a differentiator in the premium market.

Top Smartphone OEMs Share in Premium Market 2022 vs 2023
Source: Counterpoint Research’s Market Pulse Service

Note: Q4 2023 data is preliminary

In terms of regions, much of the global premium market’s growth in 2023 is being driven by China, Western Europe, India and the Middle East and Africa (MEA) regions. In fact, China, India, MEA and Latin America are likely to see a new record for premium market sales, with India being the fastest-growing premium market globally.

Within the premium market, it is the ultra-premium segment that is driving the growth. The $1,000 and above price segment has captured over one-third of the total premium market sales in 2023.

Overall, the premium segment is likely to continue to outgrow the global smartphone market. OEMs that can differentiate themselves and, more importantly, build a strong brand will benefit from this segment’s growth.

Please reach out to press@counterpointresearch.com for press comments and enquiries.

You can also visit our Data Section (updated quarterly) to view the smartphone market share for World, USA, China, and India.

Background

Counterpoint Technology Market Research is a global research firm specializing in products in the TMT (technology, media and telecom) industry. It services major technology and financial firms with a mix of monthly reports, customized projects and detailed analyses of the mobile and technology markets. Its key analysts are seasoned experts in the high-tech industry.

Follow Counterpoint Research

press(at)counterpointresearch.com

Over 1 Billion Generative AI (GenAI) Smartphones to be Shipped Cumulatively During CY2024-2027

  • The smartphone industry is set for a revolutionary change with the introduction of Generative AI-based devices. 
  • The share of GenAI smartphones will be 4% of the market in 2023 and is likely to double next year.
  • By 2027, we expect the GenAI smartphone share to reach 40% and surpass half a billion in shipments.
  • Samsung will capture half of this market next year followed by key Chinese OEMs like Xiaomi, vivo, HONOR and OPPO.
  • Qualcomm and Samsung are immediate leaders as current product offerings and capabilities position them as first movers.
  • Qualcomm is likely to capture over 80% of the GenAI smartphone market for the next two years. MediaTek is likely to catch up with its Dimensity 9300-based devices.

Seoul, Beijing, Boston, Hong Kong, London, New Delhi, Taipei, Tokyo – December 20, 2023

The coming year will be pivotal for Generative AI (GenAI) smartphones with preliminary data projecting their shipments to reach over 100 million units in 2024, according to an upcoming report, “GenAI Smartphone Shipments and Insights”, from Counterpoint Research’s Smartphone 360 Service. By 2027, we expect GenAI smartphone shipments to reach 522 million units, growing at a CAGR of 83%.

Counterpoint Research defines GenAI smartphones as a subset of AI smartphones that uses Generative AI to create original content, rather than just providing pre-programmed responses or performing predefined tasks. These devices will run size-optimized AI models natively and come with certain hardware specifications. Our short-term GenAI landscape sees OEM roadmaps touching on four main areas – info provisioning, image building, live translation, and personal assistant applications.

Samsung and Qualcomm are immediate leaders as current product offerings and capabilities position them as first movers.

Similar to what it did with foldables, Samsung is likely to capture almost 50% share for the next two years, followed by key Chinese OEMs like Xiaomi, vivo, HONOR and OPPO. Samsung earlier highlighted the use case of its Galaxy AI on smartphones. This is one example of how OEMs are geared to differentiate their upcoming smartphones and GenAI will play a key role in that differentiation.

Qualcomm is likely to capture over 80% of the GenAI smartphone market for the next two years. MediaTek is likely to catch up with its Dimensity 9300-based devices.

Research Director Tarun Pathak said, “The share of GenAI smartphones in the overall smartphone market will be in single digits through next year. But those numbers will not accurately reflect the amount of excitement and marketing hyperbole we are expecting to see.”

Pathak added, “We are working to a standard definition developed with our clients and partners, reflecting inputs from across these key players. Next year is about learning and we expect GenAI smartphones to hit an inflection point in 2026 as the devices permeate through the broader price segments.”

Global GenAI Smartphone Share and Forecast, 2023-2027

Global GenAI Smartphone Share and Forecast, 2023-2027

Source: Counterpoint Research Smartphone 360 Service, GenAI Smartphone Shipments and Insights Report

VP & Research Director Peter Richardson said, “AI has been a feature of smartphones for the last few years. We now expect to see the emergence of smartphones optimized to run GenAI models in addition to the normal use of AI in smartphones. The likely use cases will include creating more personalized content, smarter digital assistants with unique personalities and conversation styles, content recommendations, and more. However, this will also require addressing issues like running into memory constraints and will likely lead to a hybrid approach in some cases. Nonetheless, one thing is for certain – we are entering an era where smartphone users no longer need to align to their devices; it will be the other way around with GenAI smartphones.”

Our analyst interviews

Background

Counterpoint Technology Market Research is a global research firm specializing in products in the TMT (technology, media and telecom) industry. It services major technology and financial firms with a mix of monthly reports, customized projects, and detailed analyses of the mobile and technology markets. Its key analysts are seasoned experts in the high-tech industry.

Follow Counterpoint Research

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Recommended Reads:

Global BEV Sales: China Players Surge Ahead, Despite Roadblocks

  • Global battery EV (BEV) sales grew 29% YoY in Q3 2023.
  • In the US, OEMs manufactured more EVs than they sold, leading to an inventory glut.
  • Global BEV sales are expected to reach almost 10 million units in 2023.

Seoul, Beijing, Boston, Buenos Aires, Hong Kong, London, New Delhi, San Diego – December 18, 2023

Driven by Europe and the expanding Southeast Asia market, global passenger battery electric vehicle (BEV) unit sales increased by 29% YoY in Q3 2023, according to the latest research from Counterpoint’s Global Passenger Electric Vehicle Model Sales Tracker. Although China maintained its position as the top global market for BEVs, the country’s sales struggled to recover their momentum due to a weakening economic outlook and intense price competition. During Q3, China’s BEV sales grew only 11%, below the global average. Nevertheless, Chinese brands successfully sold over 0.13 million BEVs abroad, marking a fourfold increase compared to Q3 2022. Tesla, BYD Auto and Volkswagen AG were the top-selling BEV groups. BYD Auto (excluding Denza) has caught up with Tesla and is expected to surpass it in Q4 to lead globally.

A chart showing Global Passenger BEV Auto Group Sales Share in Q3 2023

Commenting on market dynamics, Senior Analyst Soumen Mandal said, “China still holds 58% of the global BEV market, with the US taking around 12%. Germany, the third-biggest BEV market, also grew more than 60% annually. BEV adoption is also rising in emerging economies like India and Southeast Asia due to the availability of affordable options. Throughout 2023, the US market expanded significantly. But despite the US BEV sales growing by 63% YoY in Q3, several automakers are cutting back on EV related expenses as customers are unwilling to pay extra for BEVs over internal combustion engine vehicles and hybrid alternatives. Ford has decided to postpone its $12-billion investment for EVs. Similarly, GM has decided to deaccelerate its EV production and delay the launch of new EV models. GM has also scrapped the plan to manufacture affordable EVs (below $30,000) with Honda.”

The top 5 BEV models globally in Q3 2023

Discussing the market outlook, Research Director Jeff Fieldhack said, “Annual BEV sales are expected to reach almost 10 million in 2023. Despite falling below automakers’ expectations, BEV sales in the US are projected to surpass 50% YoY growth. The decreasing cost of lithium-ion batteries together with the development of low-cost alternative battery chemistries will help the affordability of BEVs. Both Europe and the US are expected to maintain substantial investments in securing access to essential minerals for BEVs, thereby reducing dependence on China. To counter China’s influence in Western auto markets, the European Union has launched an anti-subsidy probe on China-made BEVs. The influx of low-cost BEVs from China has been adversely affecting Europe’s domestic automakers. This underlines the growing competitiveness in the BEV market, which is expected to intensify further.”

Background

Counterpoint Technology Market Research is a global research firm specializing in products in the TMT (technology, media and telecom) industry. It services major technology and financial firms with a mix of monthly reports, customized projects and detailed analyses of the mobile and technology markets. Its key analysts are seasoned experts in the high-tech industry.

Follow Counterpoint Research

press(at)counterpointresearch.com

Counterpoint Research Acquires DSCC to Deepen Display and Supply Chain Expertise

Strengthens research leadership across all major IT products and accelerates double-digit growth

Seoul/Delaware, December 13, 2023: Counterpoint Research, a leading global technology industry research firm covering semiconductors, components and manufacturing on the supply side, and smartphones, consumer electronics, PCs, servers, networks, automotive, industrial and other connected end markets on the demand side, has completed the acquisition of display industry specialist Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC).

Formed in 2016, DSCC is a leading provider of data, insights and analyses for the $120-billion display industry, delivering its research through syndicated reports, consultation and events. DSCC has offices in all the key manufacturing centers and markets of East Asia as well as the US and UK. The company has built an excellent reputation among clients, which is reflected in its consistent business performance and attractive growth profile. Leveraging over 25 years of display industry experience of each of its four founders, DSCC will enhance Counterpoint Research’s display research across numerous verticals, helping broaden its market coverage and strengthening its component and supply chain business.

DSCC’s research will scale up further through integration with Counterpoint Research’s end-to-end data and comprehensive methodologies that cover the entire supply chain – from chip fabrication to devices to the end consumer.

Immediate benefits for customers will come from combining Counterpoint Research’s country-level bottom-up sales research with DSCC’s panel shipment and supply chain data, allowing for higher levels of insight and value for clients of both companies.

The acquisition also facilitates Counterpoint Research’s expansion into new product segments and geographies, where DSCC has a strong presence.

“DSCC has a proven track record of delivering accurate and timely analyses in the advanced display market, helping its clients make more informed decisions in what continues to be a rapidly evolving market. The business has seen high growth and profitability during the last five years which, combined with a highly experienced and knowledgeable analyst team, makes it a natural fit for Counterpoint Research. This acquisition will help add more depth to our supply chain research and enhance many end markets we currently cover,” said Tom Kang, Managing Director of Counterpoint Research.

“We see this acquisition as favorable for our clients and those of DSCC, as our combined expertise will deliver even more insights and value. Furthermore, the combination of display supply chain insights coupled with our country-level sales data positions us as one of the best research firms to service the technology industry. This will further accelerate our double-digit growth in revenue and earnings.”

Ross Young, Co-Founder and CEO of DSCC, said Counterpoint Research’s vast data and insights would add significant value for DSCC’s clients. “Counterpoint Research has quickly become the leader in numerous market segments, and access to its sales data will help refine our near-term forecasts, drive innovation and ultimately enhance the content we provide to our clients. There are also numerous research segments our combined businesses can add tremendous value to, helping our clients make better decisions.”

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About Counterpoint Research

Counterpoint Technology Market Research is a global research firm specializing in products in the TMT (technology, media and telecom) industry. It services major technology and financial firms with a mix of monthly reports, customized projects, and detailed analyses of the mobile and technology markets. Its key analysts are seasoned experts in the tech industry.

About Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC)

DSCC is the leader in advanced display market research with offices across all the key manufacturing centers and markets of East Asia as well as the US and UK. It was formed by experienced display market analysts from across the display supply chain and delivers valuable insights, data and supply chain analyses on the display industry through consulting, syndicated reports and events. Its accurate and timely analyses help businesses navigate the complexities of the display supply chain.

2023 Global Smartphone Shipments to Hit Lowest Level in Almost a Decade

  • Global smartphone shipments in 2023 are expected to shrink by 5% YoY to reach 1.2 billion.
  • However, the shipments are expected to increase by 3% YoY in Q4 2023.
  • The iPhone 15 Pro series’ share in the overall iPhone 15 series is projected to increase to 65% in Q4 2023.
  • India will become Apple’s new growth focus, but the brand’s underperformance in China will hinder its growth in 2024.

London, San Diego, Seoul, New Delhi, Beijing, Buenos Aires, Hong Kong – November 30, 2023

Global smartphone shipments in 2023 are projected to decline 5% YoY to reach 1.2 billion, the lowest level in almost a decade, according to Counterpoint Research’s Smartphone 360 Global Smartphone Shipment Forecast. However, the shipments are expected to increase by 3% YoY in Q4 2023 to reach 312 million units.

North America (NAM) and Europe’s shipments are expected to remain stagnant. But China and emerging markets such as the Middle East and Africa (MEA) and India have managed to break out from their declines and will recover to become the new drivers of growth in the smartphone market from Q4 2023 onwards.

Apple, the usual market leader in Q4 with its newly launched series, is expected to record a volume decline of 3% YoY in Q4 2023, mainly due to Huawei’s aggressive expansion in China and prolonged delay in smartphone upgrades in Japan. However, Apple will try to offset the underperformance in volume terms by growing in value terms with a better product mix. In Q4 2022, the shipment share of the iPhone 14 Pro series in the entire iPhone 14 series was 61%. In Q4 2023, however, the iPhone 15 Pro series’ portion in the iPhone 15 series is projected to increase to 65%.

Global Smartphone Market Shipments, 2013-2024F

Global Smartphone Market Shipments, 2013-2024F
Source: Counterpoint Research

After destocking efforts end with a relatively healthy inventory by the year-end, smartphone shipments in 2024 are projected to grow by 3% YoY. We can also expect a recovery focused on emerging markets, backed by increasing consumer confidence and improving macroeconomic conditions.

Apple will be just in line with the market growth in 2024 while facing pressures in its traditional markets. The retention of high interest rates in the US, which hit consumer spending, and intensifying competition in China’s premium smartphone market, mainly due to Huawei, are expected to hinder Apple’s growth throughout 2024.

Huawei, driven by its newly launched Mate 60 5G series and older P-series 4G devices, recorded an enormous success in Q3 2023. Assuming that Huawei can expand the production of its Kirin SoCs via partnerships, the brand is expected to continue to grow 37% YoY in 2024.

Associate Director Liz Lee said, “India, maintaining its momentum for premiumization, is expected to become Apple’s new growth focus. Apple’s India shipments are predicted to grow 23% YoY in 2024. However, due to its underperformance against Huawei in China, Apple’s global market share will unavoidably decline slightly YoY in Q4 2023 and across 2024.”

Background

Counterpoint Technology Market Research is a global research firm specializing in products in the TMT (technology, media and telecom) industry. It services major technology and financial firms with a mix of monthly reports, customized projects, and detailed analyses of the mobile and technology markets. Its key analysts are seasoned experts in the high-tech industry.

Follow Counterpoint Research

press(at)counterpointresearch.com

 

Global Smartwatch Market Rebounds; Huawei and Fire-Boltt Hit New Peaks

  • The global smartwatch market rebounded with a 9% YoY rise in Q3 2023 shipments, continuing the upward trend from the previous quarter.
  • Growth was propelled by strong performances in the Indian market, particularly from Fire-Boltt, and Huawei’s significant surge in China.
  • Outside India, the rise in high-specification HLOS smartwatches, driven by new Apple, Huawei, and Samsung releases, dominated the market.

Seoul, New Delhi, Hong Kong, Beijing, London, Buenos Aires, San Diego – December 01, 2023

Global smartwatch shipments increased 9% YoY in Q3 2023, according to Counterpoint Research’s latest Global Smartwatch Model Tracker. After experiencing a slowdown earlier this year, the smartwatch market regained momentum in Q2 2023 and continued the positive trend in Q3 as well. The primary drivers of this growth were the sustained strong performance of the Indian market led by Fire-Boltt, as well as Huawei’s tremendous rebound in China.

Research Analyst Woojin Son said, “There is significant value in examining the growth drivers of the global smartwatch market in Q3 2023. Amid a global economic slowdown, most consumer device markets like smartphones are still experiencing stagnation compared to a year ago. In contrast, the smartwatch market has recorded YoY growth for two consecutive quarters in both premium and budget segments. Notably, High-level Operating System (HLOS)* smartwatches, typically featuring higher specification and price, have grown largely driven by Huawei in Q3 2023 as the company posted its highest quarterly performance ever. Most of this surge occurred in the Chinese domestic market, coupled with the launch of new Huawei 5G smartphones.”

High-level Operating System (HLOS)* Smartwatch Market Share, Q3 2022 vs Q3 2023

Source: Counterpoint Global Smartwatch Model Shipment and Revenue Tracker, Q3 2023

Son added, “Meanwhile, the Indian market, which has been powerfully leading the Basic* smartwatch sector, maintained robust growth in the quarter. The country contributed to 35% of total global shipments, securing its position as the leader in the global market for the third consecutive quarter.”

Market Summary

  • Apple delivered its best-ever Q3 performance, with a 7% YoY increase in shipments. This achievement is particularly noteworthy given that the latest Apple Watch, a key product in their lineup, was released slightly later than the previous year. The strong shipments of the 2nd-generation SE model significantly contributed to the growth of the industry leader.
  • Huawei witnessed an impressive 56% YoY increase in overall shipments for the quarter, with HLOS smartwatches seeing a remarkable 122% surge. Its Watch 4 and 4 Pro series, released in Q2 2023, and the Watch GT 4, released in Q3 2023, have achieved good popularity. The increase in Huawei’s shipments was due to the return of its smartphones and the bundled sales model induced by various sales channels.
  • Samsung experienced a 19% YoY decline in shipments. However, the new products released in August exhibited only a 3% drop compared to the previous ones. In essence, the decrease in Samsung smartwatch shipments this quarter appears to be primarily attributed to a sharper decline of legacy models. Meanwhile, the proportion of the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic significantly increased compared to last year’s 5 Pro, contributing to the rise in the ASP of the brand.
  • Fire-Boltt reclaimed its leadership position in India after recording its all-time highest quarterly shipments. All the three major Indian brands — Fire-Boltt, Noise and boAt — are experiencing a slower growth rate than before. However, this is interpreted not as a sign of sluggishness, but rather as an indication of entering a phase of stabilization.

*Types of smartwatches:

  • HLOS smartwatch: Electronic watch running a high-level OS, such as Watch OS (Apple) or Wear OS (Samsung), with the ability to install third-party apps.
  • Basic smartwatch: Electronic watch running a lighter version of an OS, with no ability to install third-party apps.

Background

Counterpoint Technology Market Research is a global research firm specializing in products in the TMT (technology, media, and telecom) industry. It services major technology and financial firms with a mix of monthly reports, customized projects, and detailed analyses of the mobile and technology markets. Its key analysts are seasoned experts in the high-tech industry.

South Africa’s Smartphone Market Grows 73% YoY in Q3 2023 to Reach Highest Since 2021

  • South Africa’s smartphone market growth supported by accelerated feature phone-to-smartphone migration.
  • Samsung led the market but its share declined as HONOR, Huawei and TECNO gained.
  • HONOR was the fastest-growing brand and captured the second position for the first time in Q3 2023.

Smartphone shipments in South Africa grew 73% YoY and 44% QoQ in Q3 2023, according to the latest research from Counterpoint Research’s Market Monitor Service. The market reached its highest levels since 2021, just before the macroeconomics-related global slowdown started. In Q3 2023, the market was also helped by the increased feature phone-to-smartphone migration as Chinese OEMs tapped into the entry price bands.

Commenting on the market performance, Senior Research Analyst Yang Wang said, “South Africa is among the fastest-growing smartphone markets in the MEA region, and major Chinese players are increasing their focus on this market. South Africa’s market is growing rapidly and has breached its 2021 levels before the macroeconomic crisis put a dent in the global economy. As the nation’s economic situation is recovering, Chinese OEMs are aggressively trying to capture demand. The entry of HONOR has further tightened competition in the market as it poses a strong competitor against Xiaomi and Samsung in the low- and mid-tier segment.”

South Africa Smartphone

Most of the major smartphone brands recorded a double-digit YoY percentage growth during the quarter and are rushing to fill the market with newer offerings to capitalize on the recovery in demand. Major Chinese players are getting aggressive and are launching multiple products in the lower price tier to further accelerate the migration from feature phones to smartphones.

Samsung led the market during the quarter, despite stiff competition from the aggressive Chinese players. It was the leading brand across all the price segments and the A-series devices continued to drive volumes. Samsung’s foldable devices are among the leading models in the premium segment.

HONOR surpassed Xiaomi to become the second-biggest smartphone brand during the quarter due to aggressive marketing activities, and improved device availability across channels. HONOR focused on low- and mid-priced smartphones and provided stiff competition to Chinese players Xiaomi and TECNO. During the quarter, HONOR also entered the premium segment with the launch of the HONOR 90 5G and 90 Lite 5G. The brand offered a free HONOR Watch 4 with the 90 5G model and HONOR Choice Earbuds X5 with the 90 Lite 5G.

Xiaomi narrowly lost its second spot to HONOR, despite its share increasing YoY during the quarter. It is focusing on increasing its channel reach. Xiaomi’s Redmi 10 and Note 11 series were the volume driver. Xiaomi is among the leading players in the low-tier price segment (< $100) due to the popularity of its Redmi 10A, 10C, and A1 series.

Transsion Group is another major player in the market, benefitting from strong demand for the TECNO and itel brands. Meanwhile, Infinix has not been able to make a presence in the market. TECNO is focusing on the low- to mid-end market while itel is focusing on the lower-end market and is the leader in its segment. TECNO’s Pova and Pop, and itel’s A series were the volume drivers. TECNO is among the leading players in the sub-$200 price range, while itel leads the <$100 segment.

South Africa is still facing an energy crisis, but we note that major macro indicators are stabilizing due to the easing of inflation and unemployment rates. Chinese players are starting to notice MEA markets in general, and South Africa will be seen as a particularly attractive market due to the higher income levels and better connectivity infrastructure. South Africa’s market is expected to grow further in the high-end segment driven by the increasing premiumization trend, and Samsung and Apple are likely to benefit the most.

Background

Counterpoint Technology Market Research is a global research firm specializing in products in the TMT (technology, media, and telecom) industry. It services major technology and financial firms with a mix of monthly reports, customized projects, and detailed analyses of the mobile and technology markets. Its key analysts are seasoned experts in the high-tech industry.

Follow Counterpoint Research

press(at)counterpointresearch.com

Singles Day Growth Boosts Odds of China Market Smartphone Recovery in Q4 2023

  • Growth: China’s YoY smartphone unit sales grows 5% during two-week 11.11 sales period
  • Drivers: Huawei, Xiaomi and Honor continue to ride strong growth momentum from October
  • Drivers: Pent up demand provides steady demand through extended sales period
  • Expectations: Despite earlier promotions by e-commerce platforms, like-for-like weekly sales growth highlights stronger, more resilient demand than last year

Beijing, Hong Kong, Seoul, Boston, New Delhi, London – November 23, 2023

Smartphone unit sales in China during this year’s two-week Singles Day sales event grew by 5% YoY, providing more confidence for a positive fourth quarter.

“This is a good start to the rest of the quarter,” says Mengmeng Zhang, senior analyst for China.  “Huawei is continuing its strong run along with Xiaomi, which is enjoying a further spike in sales with the launch of its new 14 series devices.”

China Singles Day 2023 Smartphone Sales Share and YoY Growth

China Singles Day 2023 Smartphone Sales Share and YoY Growt
Source: Counterpoint Research Smartphone 360 Weekly Tracker, China. (*2022 spans Oct 31 – Nov 13; 2023 spans Oct 30 – Nov 12.)

Huawei’s success and climb in the rankings has been helped by the recent launch of its Mate 60 series 5G phones and popularity of its older P-series 4G devices.  “The company is posting some very good growth numbers, but obviously there’s base effects happening,” notes China analyst Archie Zhang.  “We expect it will grow by more than half this year, but that still doesn’t bring them close to pre-COVID levels. But it’s signalling a promising 2024.”

“Apple is improving compared to last month but there still seems to be hiccups in terms of supply,” observes Ivan Lam, senior analyst for manufacturing.  “But considering last November’s supply snafu was an anomaly, the YoY numbers could move into positive territory as current supply tightness normalizes.”

Background

Counterpoint Technology Market Research is a global research firm specializing in products in the TMT (technology, media and telecom) industry. It services major technology and financial firms with a mix of monthly reports, customized projects and detailed analyses of the mobile and technology markets. Its key analysts are seasoned experts in the high-tech industry.

Follow Counterpoint Research

press(at)counterpointresearch.com

 

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Accuracy of Information: While the information contained on this Website has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, We disclaims all warranties as to the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of such information. User assumes sole responsibility for the use it makes of this Website to achieve his/her intended results.

Third Party Links: This Website may contain links to other third party websites, which are provided as additional resources for the convenience of Users. We do not endorse, sponsor or accept any responsibility for these third party websites, User agrees to direct any concerns relating to these third party websites to the relevant website administrator.

Cookies and Tracking

We may monitor how you use our Web sites. It is used solely for purposes of enabling us to provide you with a personalized Web site experience.
This data may also be used in the aggregate, to identify appropriate product offerings and subscription plans.
Cookies may be set in order to identify you and determine your access privileges. Cookies are simply identifiers. You have the ability to delete cookie files from your hard disk drive.