In a big win for the smartphone industry, recent market reports reveal that Android maintains a strong lead in China with a market share of 64% in Q4 2024, with Xiaomi contributing the largest percentage towards this astounding figure. This leadership is a reflection of Xiaomi’s aggressive innovation and positioning in one of the most competitive markets for smartphones in the world. The figures, released by CounterPoint Research, also highlight how operating systems from China in general performed better than iOS for the fourth quarter in a row, demonstrating the shifting currents in mobile technology preferences in the nation.
Global Smartphone Market Analysis
CounterPoint’s latest report, dated March 12, indicates that worldwide smartphone sales were flat year-on-year in Q4 2024. The overall mobile operating system market share was little changed, with:
- Android maintains global leadership at 74% -iOS with a global market share of 22%
- HarmonyOS gradually expanding to account for 4% globally
In spite of Android’s continued global dominance, the report noted that the platform experienced all-time lowest market shares in the US and in India during this period.
Specific Market Features in China
The Chinese smartphone market is a highly interesting example, with specific trends that can be noted:
- Android platforms, dominated by Xiaomi products, held a market share of 64% HarmonyOS achieved a stunning 19% market share
- iOS dropped to 17%, behind HarmonyOS for the fourth consecutive quarter
This is a huge win for local Chinese manufacturers, particularly Xiaomi, that has been successful in winning over buyers with its powerful combination of innovative features, aggressive pricing, and integration with their own ecosystem.
Xiaomi Competitive Strengths
Xiaomi’s immense contribution towards Android leadership in China is attributed to several key reasons:
- Continuous innovation across all price segments
- Focus on sophisticated camera systems and display technology MIUI popularity and feature-rich environment
- Strategic alliances with leading technology suppliers
Strong offline and online networks of distribution Industry analysts predict that Xiaomi is poised to consolidate market position, especially with government subsidy policies expected to further favour local brands in the coming quarters.
Source: ITHome