Huawei has surpassed Apple in total shipments of wrist-worn devices during the first nine months of 2024, marking a significant shift in the smartwatch and fitness band market, according to an IDC report. This achievement comes as Huawei capitalized on strategic market expansion, introducing innovative products like the GT5 and GT5 Pro, which combine advanced health-tracking features with stylish designs. By tailoring its offerings to regional preferences in growing markets such as Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East, Huawei managed to thrive even as growth in traditional markets like the US and India slowed.
Meanwhile, Apple faces increasing competition, with its Series 10 smartwatch providing only a temporary sales boost. Critics have called for more innovation from Apple, noting that competitors like Samsung and Xiaomi are also gaining ground. Samsung’s mix of premium and budget-friendly options and Xiaomi’s affordable yet feature-packed devices, such as the Band 9 and Watch S series, are appealing to a wide range of consumers.
China played a critical role in reshaping the global landscape, with a 20% surge in wrist-worn device shipments, driven by rising demand for health-tracking and fashionable wearables. This domestic growth highlights the importance of catering to local markets. Huawei’s success demonstrates that sustained innovation and meeting customer needs are key to thriving in this evolving market.
While Apple continues to lead the smartwatch segment, the narrowing gap underscores the competitive pressure. Moving forward, Apple will need to introduce fresh designs, expand its market reach, and innovate to retain its crown. Huawei’s rise signals a new era in the wearable market, where agility and responsiveness to consumer trends determine leadership.