The third quarter of the year marked a slight setback for the smartphone market in China. According to data published by IDC for Q3 2025Total shipments reached 68,46 million units, a 0,5% decrease compared to the same period last year. This is a modest but significant decline, reflecting a traditionally weaker period for sales, exacerbated this year by a reduced number of new product launches and a reduction in government subsidies for mobile device purchases.
IDC Q3 2025 data: Chinese smartphone market slows, but Apple and OPPO grow
Among major manufacturers, Vivo maintained its leadership position with 11,8 million units shipped, capturing a 17,2% market share, despite a 7,8% decline year-over-year. Apple, on the other hand, saw slight growth, with 10,8 million units shipped and a 15,8% share, up 0,6%. Huawei ranked third with 10,4 million devices and a 15,2% share, down slightly by 1%.
Xiaomi It shipped 10 million units, achieving a 14,7% share, but contracted 1,7% compared to 2024. OPPO showed signs of recovery, with 9,9 million units shipped and a 14,5% share, up 0,4%. Honor matched OPPO in terms of volume, but saw its market share decline to 14,4%, a decline of 1,5%.
The outlook for the fourth quarter could improve thanks to the early launch of new flagships, such as the Xiaomi 17 series, and the upcoming Double Eleven promotional event (November 11). However, according to IDC analyst Arthur Guo, the current economic uncertainty could limit the positive impact of these initiatives on sales.
