Apple(US:AAPL) 智通财经网·2025-07-11 08:03Core Insights - The Japanese smartphone market experienced a significant year-on-year growth of 31% in Q1 2025, primarily driven by strong sales from Apple, which saw a 57% increase in shipments due to the successful launch of the iPhone 16e and continued demand for the iPhone 16 series [1][6] - Apple's dominance in the Japanese market is notable, contributing nearly 90% of the total market growth, with no other brand exceeding an increase of 500,000 units during the same period [1][4] Group 1: Market Dynamics - The growth in the Japanese smartphone market is also supported by aggressive promotional activities from carriers, retailers, and OEMs, including device discounts, point rewards, data boosts, service bundling, and mobile number portability incentives [3] - Device return programs are becoming increasingly popular among Japanese consumers, further stimulating new purchases and upgrades [3] Group 2: Apple's Market Position - Apple's market share in Japan is significantly higher than in other major Asian and global markets, attributed to the evolution of telecom policies, historical channel inertia, and unique cultural factors [4] Group 3: Market Outlook - The strong growth is expected to continue into Q2 2025, but a decline is anticipated starting in Q3 as sales of the iPhone 16e have already begun to decrease since June [6] - The upcoming iPhone 17, set to launch later in 2025, may spark new competition in the high-end market, although its high pricing could limit some sales potential [6] - Competing Android brands like Samsung and Google are introducing more cost-effective flagship products to capture market share amid inflation, yen depreciation, and potential tariff increases [6]