This is the first time the Chinese original equipment manufacturer (OEM) has surpassed the US technology giant in the global wearables race.
According to data released by market research company Counterpoint on August 28, in the second quarter of 2025, the volume of global smartwatch manufacturing increased by 8% compared to the same period last year, signaling the market's recovery after five consecutive quarters of decline.
In particular, Huawei leads the market with a 21% market share, with a sales growth rate of 52% over the same period last year. Currently, this is the highest number among the top 10 brands in the world. Huawei took the No. 1 spot with a total factory market share of 21%, surpassing Apple in the smartwatch race.
Huawei's achievements in the global wearables race are largely due to strong growth in China and expanding its strategy to other regions, according to Counterpoint.
Thanks to its diverse product portfolio, strong domestic growth momentum and competitive prices in the mid-range and high-end segments, Huawei has surpassed Apple to lead global smartwatch sales for the first time, added Anshika Jain, senior research analyst at Counterpoint.
According to Counterpoint, Huawei's smartwatch is sought after in China, with prices ranging from $100 to $400. At the same time, the company has now begun to expand its presence in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Asia-Pacific region to increase the number of users globally.
Apple ranked second behind Huawei with 17% market share, down 3% year-on-year. This is the 7th consecutive quarter that Apple's smartwatch sales have decreased. However, the tech giant is still leading in the premium smartwatch segment, thanks to the power of the iOS ecosystem and enduring user loyalty.
Xiaomi appeared in third place with 9% market share. Xiaomi leads the basic smartwatch segment, thanks to products aiming for value and wide geographical range
Meanwhile, Imoo ranked fourth with a 7% market share, continuing to dominate the market of smartwatches for children, taking advantage of specialized features and strong brand recognition among young people and parents. Samsung is fifth with a 6% global market share. Their sales fell 3% year-on-year.
