China's January smartphone sales down 23pc Y/Y, says Counterpoint

China's smartphone sales fell 23 percent in January compared with a year ago due to a high base in 2025 and a shift in the timing of Chinese New Year promotions, Counterpoint Research said on Thursday.

Chinese mobile maker Huawei kept the leading position last month despite a 27 percent Y/Y decline in sales, Counterpoint said in a statement.

Domestic brands mostly saw double‑digit declines in sales in January with Xiaomi (1810) falling the most at 36 percent on the year, the statement added.

Apple was the only major brand to post year-on-year growth. Its sales in China were up 8 percent Y/Y in January, with the iPhone 17 series sustaining strong momentum.

Reuters