China Smartphone Sales Drop 23% YoY in January; Xiaomi -36%, Apple +8%

China's smartphone sales declined 23% in January 2026 YoY, per Counterpoint Research, following a high base in 2025 and shifts in Chinese New Year promotional timing. Despite a 27% YoY drop, Huawei retained the top position. Domestic brands mostly posted double-digit declines, led by Xiaomi's 36% drop. Apple was the only major brand to grow, with sales up 8% YoY, supported by strong momentum for the iPhone 17 series.