At the beginning of the year, iPhone sales fell by 30%
Amid growing competitive pressure in the world's largest smartphone market, Apple has decided to announce discounts on the latest iPhones in China.
As Reuters writes, the technology giant has reduced the prices of some iPhones by 5%. The limited-time promotion, in honor of the Chinese New Year, will last from January 18 to 21. Apple's discounts in this case are notable because the company has not reduced prices during the Chinese New Year for many years in a row. However, iPhone 15 sales in China were much worse than previous models.
Local competitors such as Huawei and Xiaomi offer competitive models, while companies and government agencies restrict employee use of Apple devices.
iPhone sales in China fell 30% in the first week of 2024 compared with the same period a year earlier, Jefferies analysts reported, and fell 3% over the past year. Analysts expect the competitive landscape to become tougher for Apple this year.
Online shopping platforms including Pinduoduo have slashed prices on the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro by as much as 16% since the start of the year. Nicole Pan, senior vice president at research firm Canalys, said the discounts were not a surprise as Apple is under pressure, especially in China, amid increased competition and growing reluctance among Apple fans to upgrade.
«It is obvious that Huawei is coming back, — Pan said, — Some Chinese consumers may return to using Huawei out of patriotism.
Canalys expects Apple's global sales to remain flat this year worldwide, although China will see a slight decline.