Apple’s iPhone sales in China rose 8% YoY in Q2 2025, the first increase since 2023. Strategic price cuts and government subsidies drove the rebound, but can it last?
Apple Is Finally Looking at Increased iPhone Sales Numbers In China
After two years of decline, Apple’s iPhone is back on the rise in China. According to new data from Counterpoint Research, iPhone sales in mainland China jumped 8% year-over-year between April and June 2025, marking Apple’s first growth quarter in the region since Q2 2023.
What Helped the iPhone Bounce Back?
Several factors aligned perfectly this quarter:
- Massive iPhone 16 discounts: Chinese e-commerce giants like JD.com and Tmall offered as much as ¥2,530 (about $350) off.
- Trade-in incentives: Apple boosted trade-in credit for older iPhones to drive upgrades.
- Government subsidies: Buyers could claim up to ¥500 off select iPhones and up to ¥2,000 off Mac models via a national program.
With the mid-year “618 shopping festival” around the corner, Apple timed these moves brilliantly, and it paid off.
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Why China Matters for iPhone Sales
China accounts for about 20% of global iPhone sales, making it a crucial market for Apple’s long-term strategy. But it hasn’t been an easy road:
- Apple has faced government restrictions on iPhone use in certain workplaces.
- Domestic brands like Huawei, Xiaomi, and Oppo have taken the fight to Apple with strong, affordable alternatives.
- Trade tensions and shifting national policies have added pressure.
That’s why this quarter’s iPhone growth in China is such a big deal, it’s a rare win after a string of rough ones.
But Will the iPhone Growth Last?
Counterpoint Research says: maybe not.
The government subsidy that helped push sales may be scaled back in the second half of 2025, and competition from Huawei is only heating up, they led the quarter with a 12% YoY increase.
Apple still ranked third in unit shipments, trailing Huawei and Vivo, but ahead of Xiaomi and Oppo in certain segments.
What’s Next for Apple in China?
Apple will report its Q3 earnings on July 31, and all eyes will be on whether this bounce was a one-time blip or a turning point. Either way, it’s a critical signal for Apple’s global iPhone strategy as it gears up for the iPhone 17 launch this fall.
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