According to independent research, Apple Inc.’s iPhone shipments showed signs of stabilization in the June quarter, coinciding with a broader acceleration in the global smartphone market’s growth.
Data from IDC reveals a 6.5% increase in global smartphone shipments, while Counterpoint Research indicates a 6% surge in consumer sales, driven partly by aggressive discounts during China’s 618 shopping festival.
In the midst of competition from Xiaomi Corp. and Huawei Technologies Co. in China, Apple shipped 45.2 million iPhones in the quarter, marking a 1.5% improvement from the same period last year. Meanwhile, Counterpoint Research reported a 1% decline in end-user sales with Xiaomi emerging as a major player, particularly in entry-level handsets and emerging markets.
The iPhone’s position in China has faced challenges from domestic competitors and government restrictions, but strategic discounts and AI advancements have helped Apple and market leader Samsung Electronics Co. maintain sales momentum.
IDC research director Nabila Popal noted a significant improvement in Apple’s Q2 performance, attributing it to promotional activities and renewed customer confidence following the WWDC announcement of Apple’s AI strategy.
