Smartwatch Market Growth Amid Smartphone Declines
As we look ahead to 2026, projections suggest a decline in smartphone shipments, contrasting sharply with the recent performance of the smartwatch market. In 2025, smartwatches experienced a healthy 4% year-over-year growth, indicating a potential shift in consumer interest. However, this positive trend may not be sustainable, especially as smartwatches rely on RAM and storage components that could soon face supply shortages.
This year-over-year growth is particularly noteworthy as it follows a decline in 2024, signifying a rebound in consumer demand for smartwatches. Yet, while the overall smartwatch market appears to be thriving, brands like Samsung reported a significant decline in shipments—12% fewer in 2025 compared to 2024. This downturn resulted in an overall 2% decline in Samsung’s year-over-year growth, while competitors such as Apple and Huawei saw substantial increases in shipments.
Huawei and Apple: Key Contributors to Growth
Central to the growth of the smartwatch sector in 2025 were major players like Huawei and Apple. According to Counterpoint Research, Huawei led the charge with a remarkable 4% year-over-year growth. Meanwhile, Apple and Xiaomi each contributed to the market’s resurgence, with both brands reporting a 1% increase in growth.
Shipment data highlights Huawei’s impressive gains, marking a 30% rise in smartwatch shipments in 2025 compared to the previous year. Xiaomi followed closely, enjoying an 18% increase, while Apple saw a more modest 8% growth. Despite these changes, Apple maintained its position as the market leader with a commanding 23% share, while Huawei captured 17% and Xiaomi held 9%. Samsung and Imoo each accounted for 7%, and other brands collectively comprised the remaining 37% of the market share.
Interestingly, more premium smartwatches, particularly those carrying higher price tags, saw the most significant increase in shipments, up 5%. In contrast, models priced under $200 experienced a decline of 9%. This shift towards more expensive, feature-rich devices indicates that consumers are increasingly willing to invest in quality over affordability in their smartwatch choices.
This evolving landscape of the smartwatch market reveals shifting consumer preferences and highlights the resilience of certain brands amidst broader trends. For detailed insights and data regarding smartwatch shipments and market dynamics, you can read more here.
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