Xiaomi Climbs as Vivo Slides: The Great Smartphone Race in China

Fresh data on smartphone activations in China for 2025 reveal intriguing shifts in market dynamics. Vivo, together with iQOO, retained the top position with 46.4 million devices activated, capturing a 16.77% market share-though this marks a decline of 2.58% compared to 2024. Meanwhile, Xiaomi, in partnership with Redmi, ascended to second place with 45.9 million activations, clinching 16.6% of the local market and showcasing an impressive 5.41% growth. This significant leap can be largely attributed to the explosive success of the Xiaomi 17 series, which helped Xiaomi leapfrog over Apple and move closer to the leading Vivo.

Apple, with 45.2 million activations, slipped to third place with a 16.35% market share, yet it boasted an 9.34% growth. Notably, in the fourth quarter of 2025, Apple recaptured its leading status in the Chinese market, primarily driven by exceptionally high sales of the iPhone 17 series.

Oppo, which includes OnePlus and realme, came in fourth place with 44 million activations, accounting for a 15.91% share. Huawei, ranked fifth, recorded 43.4 million activations, securing a 15.70% share.

The Role of Innovation and Consumer Preferences

This year, the Chinese smartphone market unmistakably favored innovation-driven brands. The Xiaomi 17 series, noted for advanced features such as superior camera capabilities and cutting-edge design, resonated well with consumers, contributing to Xiaomi’s surge. In contrast, Apple’s strategic pricing and robust brand loyalty saw its comeback in late 2025, highlighting the competitive vigor in China’s tech market.

As brands continue to vie fiercely for dominance, understanding consumer preference trends and technological adoption will be pivotal for sustaining growth. With the ongoing rivalry, more developments await in 2026, possibly shifting the market landscape further.