Xiaomi Surpasses Apple: Global Shipment Numbers Rise

Xiaomi Achieves Second Place in Global Smartphone Shipments

A strong second quarter performance propelled Xiaomi to the No. 2 position in worldwide smartphone shipments, as detailed in recent data released by Canalys. The Chinese mobile company experienced remarkable growth, increasing shipments by 83% compared to the same period last year.

Market Share and Ranking

This surge in sales allowed Xiaomi to secure 17% of the global smartphone market. It places them closely behind Samsung, which currently holds the leading position with a 19% market share.

Apple occupies the third spot with 14%, experiencing a slowdown in its previous growth rate. Oppo and Vivo, both Chinese manufacturers, complete the top five, each holding a 10% share of the market.

Huawei's Decline

Notably absent from the top rankings is Huawei. This significant decline is largely attributed to trade restrictions and blacklisting, which have limited its access to key markets, including the United States.

These restrictions have also impacted Huawei’s ability to utilize U.S. mobile products, such as Google’s Android operating system and associated applications.

Factors Driving Xiaomi's Success

Aggressive pricing is identified by Canalys as a key contributor to Xiaomi’s success. This strategy is particularly effective when contrasted with the higher prices of premium devices offered by Samsung and Apple.

Ben Stanton, Research Manager at Canalys, notes Xiaomi’s evolving business model. The company is transitioning from a challenger brand to an established player through initiatives like channel partner consolidation and improved stock management.

Future Growth and Strategy

Despite its progress, Xiaomi primarily caters to the mass market. Its average selling price remains approximately 40% lower than Samsung’s and 75% lower than Apple’s.

A primary focus for Xiaomi in the current year is to increase sales of its higher-end devices, such as the Mi 11 Ultra.

Geographical Expansion

While not widely recognized in the United States, Xiaomi has achieved considerable success in regions like Latin America, Africa, and Western Europe.

The company continues to seek opportunities for expansion in these and other markets as it aims to challenge Samsung’s dominance, alongside the continued growth efforts of Oppo and Vivo.