Apple’s latest earnings report for Q1 FY2026 (covering the 2025 holiday season) was a showstopper. Despite fierce competition from local giants like Huawei and Xiaomi, Apple’s revenue in Greater China surged by approximately 38%, setting a new record for iPhone sales in the region.
Here is why Chinese consumers remain “hooked” on the iPhone, even as domestic alternatives become more powerful:
1. The “Catch-up” Appeal of the iPhone 17
The iPhone 17 series was the primary engine for this growth. For years, Apple was criticized for “gatekeeping” features on its base models. With the 17 series:
- Feature Parity: The base models finally received ProMotion (120Hz) and upgraded RAM. This removed the “deal-breaker” for many mid-tier buyers.
- Strategic Pricing: Amidst inflation and rising component costs, Apple kept its entry price stable, making the “luxury” of an iPhone feel more attainable compared to domestic flagships that are steadily creeping up in price.
2. The Massive “Upgrade Cycle”
Apple’s CFO noted a record number of upgraders in China.
- Millions of users holding onto iPhone 12 or 13 models finally reached a breaking point with battery life and processing speed.
- Because of ecosystem lock-in (iCloud, AirDrop, and seamless integration with MacBooks or iPads), these users find it “cognitively expensive” to switch to Android. They chose to stay within the walled garden.
3. Residual Value & “Economic Rationality”
In a more cautious economic climate, Chinese consumers are becoming more “rational” about their luxury purchases:
- Resale Value: An iPhone typically retains 40-50% of its value after two years, whereas many Android flagships drop significantly more.
- Longevity: The perception that an iPhone can “run smoothly for 5 years” still carries immense weight in the Chinese market compared to the perceived fragmentation of Android over time.
4. The “Safety Net” During OS Transitions
While Huawei is making waves with HarmonyOS NEXT, it is currently in a transition phase where some niche apps or older software are still being optimized. For users who prioritize stability and “no-fuss” reliability for work and daily life, the mature iOS ecosystem remains the “safe harbor.”
5. Subsidies and Seasonal Sales
The 2025 year-end shopping festivals (like Double 11 and 12/12) combined with government-backed trade-in subsidies for electronics made the iPhone 17 exceptionally competitive. In many cases, these subsidies brought the effective price of a new iPhone down to its lowest level in years.
Key Data Summary
| Factor | Impact on China Market |
|---|---|
| Greater China Revenue | ~38% YoY Growth |
| Top Seller | iPhone 17 Pro & Pro Max |
| Key Driver | Replacement cycle of 3-4 year old devices |
| Competitive Edge | Brand prestige + Ecosystem stickiness |
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