Apple is showing renewed strength in one of its most important markets. New figures indicate that iPhone sales in China increased even as the country’s overall smartphone market experienced a decline. The latest data suggests Apple is reversing a trend that had weighed on its performance in recent years.
According to figures from the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT), shipments of foreign-branded smartphones, including the iPhone, rose by 66% between May and June 2026. Although the data does not separate individual brands, the report points to strong momentum for Apple’s flagship device.
Overall Smartphone Market Slows
The broader Chinese smartphone market moved in the opposite direction. Overall smartphone shipments fell by 15.3% compared with June 2025. Despite that decline, foreign smartphone brands shipped 3.28 million devices during June. Meanwhile, Chinese smartphone makers shipped 19.15 million units.
Because the figures compare different time periods, they do not provide a direct year-over-year comparison for foreign brands. Even so, the numbers suggest that iPhones and other overseas smartphones are gaining popularity while domestic brands face greater pressure.
Apple’s Turnaround Continues
China remains one of Apple’s most significant markets. Therefore, the latest growth represents an important shift after several years of declining iPhone sales in the country.
The report also suggests that improving relations between China and the United States may have helped consumer sentiment. Earlier trade tensions encouraged many buyers to choose local smartphone brands. However, recent sales trends indicate that demand for the iPhone is strengthening once again.
Apple’s performance also reflects its strong March 2026 quarter. During that period, iPhone sales in China reached $20.5 billion, an increase of more than $4 billion from the previous year. Apple CEO Tim Cook credited the success to the popularity of the iPhone 17, saying the product had strongly connected with customers.
AI Could Drive Further Growth
Apple’s recovery in China may not be over. Apple Intelligence has not yet launched in the country because of China’s complex AI regulations. However, the report states that an announcement is expected soon. If the AI platform becomes available, it could further strengthen iPhone demand.
For now, Apple appears to be outperforming the wider smartphone market. While overall shipments continue to decline, the company’s improving sales suggest it has regained momentum in a market that remains vital to its long-term growth.
