Huawei has overtaken Apple to become the top vendor in the global wrist-worn wearables market.
According to a new report from IDC China, Huawei’s wearable shipments surged by over 44% year-on-year in the first three quarters of 2024, reaching 23.6 million units.
This strong performance earned the brand a 16.9% market share, placing it ahead of Apple, which shipped 22.5 million units and secured a 16.2% share, a drop from the previous year’s 18.4%
The growth continued across the entire year. Huawei sold 26.5 million wearables in 2024, achieving a 13.7% global market share. The company’s success is driven by popular releases such as the Watch GT 5 series, Watch D2, and Watch Ultimate.
These devices introduced the new TruSense health system, enhancing their appeal to health-conscious consumers and helping Huawei stand out in an increasingly competitive market.
Apple, despite launching the Watch Series 10 and Watch Ultra 2, saw a 12.8 percent decline in shipments. While it continues to dominate the premium smartwatch segment, Apple’s overall unit volume dropped, signalling a shift in consumer preferences, especially in price-sensitive markets.
Xiaomi also made significant strides in 2024. The company shipped 29.3 million devices and grew its share by 42.2%, ranking second in total shipments. Its focus on affordable fitness bands and smartwatches resonated with budget-conscious buyers.
Samsung followed in fourth place, shipping 15.6 million units for an 8.1% market share, up 34.9% from the previous year. New releases like the Galaxy Watch FE helped Samsung regain ground.
The global wearables market grew by four percent in 2024, reaching 193 million units. Growth was largely fueled by emerging markets, where consumers are adopting wearables at a rapid pace.
Huawei’s strength in China, where it holds more than one-third of the market, and its strategic expansion into Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa, have been key to its success.
As the market evolves, the balance between innovation, affordability, and regional strategy will be critical. Brands that can deliver meaningful health features, stylish design, and competitive pricing are best positioned to win in 2025 and beyond.
