Apple’s iPhone sales soar, regaining top spot in China

Apple’s iPhone sales surged by 15% in April and May 2025 compared to the previous year, marking the company’s strongest two-month performance since the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Counterpoint Research. This growth helped Apple reclaim the number one position in China’s smartphone market in May, overtaking competitors like Huawei and Xiaomi.

The sales boost was largely driven by heavy discounts in China, where government subsidies made iPhones more affordable. For example, the iPhone 16 Pro (128GB) dropped to about $765, and the iPhone 16e to $515 after subsidies. These price cuts, combined with strong demand in the U.S., Japan, India, and the Middle East, fueled Apple’s global success.

In India, Apple’s growing manufacturing and market presence also contributed to the rise. Analyst Jeff Fieldhack noted that “agentic AI” hasn’t yet influenced most smartphone purchases, giving Apple time to improve its Apple Intelligence features and enhance Siri’s capabilities. Despite earlier struggles in China, where iPhone shipments fell 18.2% in late 2024, Apple’s strategic discounts and focus on key markets have paid off.

The iPhone 16 led global sales in early 2025, securing four of the top five spots in worldwide smartphone rankings. Looking ahead, Apple is preparing to launch the iPhone 17 series, including a sleek iPhone 17 Air, alongside new Apple Watch models. With iOS 26’s “Liquid Glass” design and expanded AI features, Apple aims to keep its momentum going.