IDC has just published a study on shipments of connected wrist devices, which includes smartwatches and bracelets. According to it, during the first three quarters of 2024, the market declined by 1% (with a shipment volume of 139 million units). A decline which would be due to more homogeneous competition and saturation on the American and Indian markets.
Sharp increase in shipments to China
However, while global shipments are declining, those from China are booming. Indeed, during the first three quarters, 45.8 million connected bracelets and watches were shipped to China, an annual increase of 20.1%. And the brand that benefits the most from this situation is Huawei, whose comeback is not limited to smartphones. Indeed, during the first three quarters, Huawei shipped 23.6 million units, representing a year-on-year growth of 44.3%.
Its market share increased from 11.6% for the first three quarters of 2023 to 16.9% for the first three quarters of 2024. Furthermore, Huawei is positioned ahead of Apple, which has a share of 16.2%. Shipments from the Cupertino company fell 12.8% during the first three quarters. Otherwise, after Apple, we found Xiaomi, Samsung, as well as BBK.
Apple is still the king of smartwatches
The data shared by IDC takes into account all accessories connected to the wrist, whether they are sophisticated watches, like the Apple Watch, or more affordable fitness bracelets. If we only took into account connected watches, Apple would still be the world leader. “Although the Apple Watch still holds the top spot in the global smartwatch market, it still needs to introduce more innovative models to continue to dominate the sector”explains IDC.
- Global shipments of wristbands and smartwatches fell 1% in first three quarters, according to IDC
- On the other hand, shipments to China increased sharply
- And Huawei was ahead of Apple, with 44.3% year-on-year growth and a 16.9% market share.
- However, if we only take connected watches into account, Apple remains the world leader
