Apple Leads Top Brands for China Smartphone Growth as Market Declines

China’s smartphone shipments declined 4% YoY in Q1 2026, as memory shortages disrupted supply and drove up costs across OEMs.Huawei led the market in Q1, supported by its domestic supply chain advantages and stable pricing. As a result, the brand recorded its highest-ever quarterly share in China since Q4 2020.Apple delivered the strongest growth among the top six brands, and it is widely seen as best positioned to navigate the memory crunch.Memory costs are expected to stay elevated throughout 2026, compelling OEMs to balance margin preservation against shipment volumes.Beijing, Berlin, Buenos Aires, Fort Collins, Hong Kong, London, New Delhi, Seoul, Taipei, Tokyo – April 17, 2026