Apple Tops China Phone Sales in iPhone 18 Pro Launch Week

Apple captured 33% of China's weekly smartphone sales during September 14–20, 2026, topping Huawei and Xiaomi, while the overall market fell 17% year over year, according to Counterpoint Research. The 33% figure reflects unit sales for one week tied to the iPhone 18 Pro launch, which was available only three days of that period versus a full week for the prior-year model. Competitor price hikes and the absence of a base iPhone 18 model, reportedly delayed due to supplier Pegatron, boosted Pro demand. Apple's China iPhone sales rose 23% in the first nine weeks of 2026 against a 4% market decline, aided by supplier agreements. Its first foldable, the iPhone Duo, starts at $1,999 with preorders October 16, entering a segment projected to grow 12.6% in 2026.