Huawei’s HarmonyOS now ahead of Apple’s iOS in China –Counterpoint

New data from Counterpoint Research shows that HarmonyOS has overtaken iOS in China. While Android still leads the market with 64% of the share in Q4 2024, HarmonyOS has captured 19%, surpassing Apple’s iOS with 17% market share.

This is a significant achievement for Huawei, especially considering its struggles in the wake of US sanctions. The company has not only surpassed Apple in software but is also outperforming Apple in both smartphone and tablet market share within China.

During Q4 2024, the company took an 18.1% share of China’s smartphone market, marking its strongest performance since the US sanctions were imposed five years ago.

Sales grew 15.5% year-over-year, fueled by strong demand for the nova 13 and Mate 70 series in the region.

Counterpoint also predicts continued growth for HarmonyOS with help from the Chinese government. To boost the economy, the government is offering a CNY 500 subsidy on smartphones priced under CNY 6,000, which is expected to further drive HarmonyOS adoption.

When it comes to the global scene, Android still leads with a 74% market share, although this is a dip from 80% in Q3 2024. Apple’s share grew to 22% (from 16%), while Huawei maintained 4% for the fourth consecutive quarter since 2024.

In other news, Huawei has confirmed to hold a March 20 event to unveil new Pura smartphones running stable HarmonyOS NEXT. This new version doesn’t have Android code and is based upon its own ‘Harmony’ kernel.

Stay tuned for the unveiling on March 20 at 2:30 pm local time.

Source: Counterpoint Research