China’s smartphone shipments fell 0.5% in Q3 2025 to 68.46M units as demand slowed; Apple held steady while local brands saw slight declines.
China’s smartphone market hit a small bump in the third quarter of 2025. According to new data from the International Data Corporation (IDC), total phone shipments in the mainland reached 68.46 million units, down 0.5% compared to the same period last year.
IDC says the third quarter is typically a slow season for smartphone sales, and this year was no exception. With fewer new product launches and reduced national subsidies, many buyers held off on upgrades.
The situation could improve next quarter, as many brands launched their new flagships earlier than usual.
