Core Viewpoint - Huawei has made a significant comeback in the Chinese smartphone market, reclaiming the top position with a market share of 18.1% in Q2 2025, marking its return to the forefront after a challenging period due to sanctions and market competition [5][6][14]. Market Dynamics - The Chinese smartphone market has faced a decline, with Q2 2025 showing a 4% year-on-year decrease in shipments, totaling 68.96 million units, ending a six-quarter growth streak [11][12]. - Despite the introduction of national subsidies, the expected boost in consumer demand has been limited, leading manufacturers to control inventory levels and rely on promotional events to clear stock [10][11][12]. Competitive Landscape - In Q2 2025, Huawei's competitors, including Vivo, OPPO, Xiaomi, and Apple, experienced a decline in shipments, with only Xiaomi showing a slight growth of 3.4% [13][19]. - Honor, once a strong competitor benefiting from Huawei's challenges, has seen its market share drop to approximately 12.8%, failing to rank among the top five smartphone brands [19][20]. Historical Context - Huawei's market share peaked at 46% in Q2 2020 before sanctions led to a significant decline, forcing the sale of its sub-brand Honor [25][26]. - The company has been on a recovery path since 2023, driven by the successful launch of the Mate 60 series and a resurgence in its product lineup [27][28]. Product Strategy - Huawei's strategy includes a focus on high-end smartphones and the introduction of innovative products like foldable phones, where it holds a dominant market share of nearly 50% in China [30][31]. - The company has also been expanding its product offerings, including the launch of the HarmonyOS 6, which aims to enhance AI capabilities and user interaction [43][44]. Future Challenges - Despite regaining the top position, Huawei faces challenges in returning to international markets due to ongoing sanctions and a highly competitive domestic landscape [33][34]. - The smartphone market is entering a phase of saturation, with increased competition from domestic brands targeting the high-end segment [34][35]. - The industry is also experiencing pressure in the foldable smartphone segment, with a 14% year-on-year decline in shipments in Q2 2025 [40]. AI Integration - The rise of AI smartphones is seen as a critical area for future growth, with Huawei aiming to innovate in this space, although it has yet to establish a leading position [41][46]. - The development of AI capabilities within HarmonyOS is part of Huawei's strategy to redefine user interaction and enhance the smartphone ecosystem [44][45].
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华尔街见闻·2025-07-31 10:16