Huawei surpasses Apple

Huawei's smartwatch sales surge thanks to competitive prices and diverse functions. Photo: Nikkei Asia .

According to Counterpoint Research , global smartwatch sales in the April-June period this year increased 8% compared to the same period last year, reaching 34.4 million units. Of which, Huawei increased 53%, reaching about 7.2 million units, taking the lead for the first time with a 21% market share.

On the other hand, Apple Watch sales fell 3% year-on-year, marking the seventh consecutive quarter of decline. The product line's global market share is now 17%, ranking second after the Chinese manufacturer.

Xiaomi ranked third with 9% market share, followed by South Korean top manufacturer Samsung with 6%.

Price is one reason Huawei is popular. According to Counterpoint Research , the average price of a Huawei smartwatch is $227 , about half the average price of Apple's $413 .

Smartwatch sales are booming in the Chinese market, partly thanks to government support for upgrades. This gives Huawei a big advantage. In addition, Nikkei Asia noted that Huawei products are also consumed strongly in the Japanese market.

"It might be because Japanese actor and singer Takuya Kimura became Huawei's brand ambassador in April, but we're seeing an increase in customers aged between 40 and 70, some of whom were hesitant about Chinese brands," said an employee at a Bic Camera store in Tokyo.

Stores are also seeing seniors choosing Huawei as their first smartwatch brand simply because the product has the essential functions.

While the Apple Watch has a square display, Huawei's smartwatch comes in both square and round versions. Some models, like the GT5 Pro, also have golf-friendly features like course guides and distance measurements.

While the Apple Watch has some unique advantages, including contactless payments, the gap in functionality between Apple and Huawei products is gradually narrowing. The Apple Watch's relatively short battery life may also be a factor in its declining market share.

Additionally, retailers have seen customers delay purchasing Apple Watches between April and June before the Apple Watch Series 11 launches in September.

In Vietnam, the company has just launched the GT 6 and Ultimate 2 lines. The products have been upgraded in terms of materials, screen brightness and silicon-carbon batteries that can be used continuously for up to 21 days. The selling price of the watches has not increased, cheaper than competitors in the same segment.

Source: https://znews.vn/huawei-vuot-qua-apple-post1590402.html