Xiaomi trumps Samsung, now the leading phone-maker in China

Being at the number one spot since 2011, Samsung loses its title to Xiaomi as China’s leading smartphone-maker. Research firm Canalys reports that phone distribution during the second quarter of 2014 shows that Xiaomi tops at 15 million handsets while Samsung tails behind at only 13.2 million devices.

“Xiaomi has executed on its strategy to grow volume shipments. It has delivered compelling products at aggressive price points, focused chiefly on its locally relevant MIUI software features and services, backed by effectively targeted marketing,” says Shanghai-based Canalys Research Analyst Jingwen Wang.

Although the brand is a hit in other countries (Philippines included), it was more celebrated in their home country (mainland China) where 97% of Xiaomi’s shipments for Q2 were directed. Because of this they’re pretty confident to look into expanding to other markets such as Indonesia, Mexico, Russia, Thailand, and Turkey during the Q3-Q4 of 2014.

“Xiaomi does have the potential to be a disruptive force beyond China and international vendors should take note,” Singapore-based Analyst Jessica Kwee mentions.

Xiaomi is the top phone-manufacturer in China but Samsung still reigns supreme in worldwide shares. The Korean giant has a global share of 26% while Apple is at 12%, Huawei at 7%, Lenovo at 5%, and Xiaomi making its way to the global top 5 at also 5% last Q2 of 2014.

Xiaomi has been making a lot of noise recently with the local availability of its Mi 3 and the announcement of the LTE-capable Mi 4. It already got people’s attentions which are sure to watch out for more products from them in the future. If Samsung is planning to make a comeback, they better do it quick while Xiaomi is still gaining momentum.

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