In a significant shift within the world's largest smartphone market, Huawei has successfully leveraged the launch of its latest flagship series to overtake Apple and reclaim the number one position in China. Recent market data reveals a dramatic sales boost following the Mate 80's release, signaling a powerful resurgence for the Chinese tech giant in its home territory.
Market Data Confirms Huawei's Resurgence
According to data from the market research firm BCI, Huawei's smartphone market share in China has seen a remarkable upswing since the Mate 80 series became available. For two consecutive weeks, the company has outpaced all competitors. In Week 48 of 2025 (November 24-30), Huawei captured 27.81% of the market, establishing a substantial lead of over 10 percentage points over Apple, which held 17.12%. The trend continued into Week 49 (December 1-7), with Huawei maintaining its lead at 22.89%, while Apple followed with 18.65%. This performance marks a clear reversal of fortunes and underscores the immediate impact of Huawei's new product strategy.
China Smartphone Market Share (BCI Data)
| Week (2025) | Huawei | Apple | OPPO |
|---|---|---|---|
| W48 (Nov 24-30) | 27.81% | 17.12% | 14.68% |
| W49 (Dec 1-7) | 22.89% | 18.65% | 16.36% |
| Other brands in the top five included vivo and Honor. Xiaomi was not listed in the top five for these weeks. |
The Catalyst: The Huawei Mate 80 Series
The driving force behind this market shift is the successful launch of the Huawei Mate 80 series. The lineup, which went on sale on November 28, 2025, includes the standard Mate 80, Pro, Pro Max, and the premium RS Ultimate Master models. A key factor in its market appeal appears to be its aggressive pricing strategy. The series starts at CNY 4,699, which represents a significant reduction of approximately CNY 800 compared to the starting price of its predecessor. This more accessible price point has been cited as a major reason for the strong consumer response.
Huawei Mate 80 Series Key Details
- Launch Date: November 25, 2025 (Sales began November 28, 2025)
- Models: Mate 80, Mate 80 Pro, Mate 80 Pro Max, Mate 80 RS Ultimate Master
- Starting Price: CNY 4,699
- Key Features: HarmonyOS 6.0, Second-generation Kunlun Glass, Second-generation Red Maple True-Chroma Camera system (Pro Max main sensor: 17.5 EV dynamic range).
- Reported Initial Sales: Approximately 376,600 units sold through (Sell-Out) by the end of W48. Standard Mate 80 sales reportedly increased by ~140% vs. previous generation.
Strong Consumer Demand and Sales Performance
Initial sales figures indicate exceptionally high demand for the Mate 80 series. Industry reports suggest that the series' overall sell-through volume in its initial weeks reached approximately 376,600 units, with the standard Mate 80 model experiencing a sales increase of around 140% compared to the previous generation. This demand translated into a frenetic launch period, with online stocks selling out within minutes and physical stores reporting long queues of eager customers. The sales momentum propelled Huawei's overall smartphone sell-out figures, contributing directly to its regained market leadership.
Technical Upgrades and Competitive Positioning
Beyond price, the Mate 80 series brings substantial hardware and software upgrades that have resonated with consumers. All models come pre-installed with the new HarmonyOS 6.0, promising enhanced performance and fluidity. The design continues Huawei's symmetrical aesthetic but introduces a new dual-ring camera module for distinct visual identity. Durability is bolstered by the use of second-generation Kunlun Glass on the displays. The camera system, branded as the second-generation Red Maple True-Chroma Camera, received particular attention, with the Pro Max model boasting a high-dynamic-range main sensor capable of 17.5 EV.
The Broader Competitive Landscape
While Huawei surged to the top, the latest data paints a picture of a highly competitive market. Following Apple in the rankings were other Chinese manufacturers OPPO, vivo, and Honor. Notably absent from the reported top five list was Xiaomi, a detail that has sparked discussion among industry observers regarding its recent performance and strategy in the domestic market. The reshuffling of ranks highlights the intense and dynamic nature of competition in China, where brand loyalty can shift rapidly with new product cycles.
Implications for the Global Smartphone Market
Huawei's recapture of the top spot in China is more than a regional victory; it is a statement of resilience and strategic recovery. The company's ability to drive such volume with a flagship product, despite ongoing global challenges, demonstrates the strength of its brand and supply chain within China. This success may provide a blueprint for its operations in other markets and could influence the competitive strategies of both Apple and other Android manufacturers worldwide as they observe the potent combination of technological innovation and strategic pricing.