According to a recent study, Apple’s iPhone 15 is off to a disappointing start in China, with sales down 4.5% compared to its predecessor, the iPhone 14, over the first 17 days after release. The decline in sales is attributed to weak consumption and the rise of competitors such as Huawei Technologies Co. Jefferies analysts led by Edison Lee estimated that sales of the iPhone 15 were down by an even sharper double-digit percentage from its predecessor.
Huawei’s Mate 60 Pro has been a particularly strong competitor, outselling Apple overall in China. The rise of Huawei and other Chinese smartphone brands has made it increasingly difficult for Apple to maintain its market share in the country.
Despite the disappointing sales in China, the iPhone 15 has been well-received in other markets, with strong sales reported in the United States and Europe. The phone features a number of upgrades over its predecessor, including a faster processor, improved camera capabilities, and a larger battery.
Apple will need to work hard to regain its footing in the Chinese market, which is the world’s largest smartphone market by volume. The company may need to adjust its pricing strategy or introduce new features specifically tailored to Chinese consumers in order to compete with local brands.
