The global wearables market is shifting gears. For the first time since 2021, Apple is no longer the top dog. Xiaomi has taken the lead, thanks to the popularity of its Redmi Band 5. In the first quarter of 2025, Xiaomi shipped 8.7 million units, a 44% jump from the same period last year. This surge gave the Chinese company a 19% market share.
Apple, on the other hand, saw a modest 5% growth, with 7.6 million units shipped. Its market share now stands at 16%. Huawei came in third, with a 36% growth and a 15% market share. So, what’s behind this shake-up? Analysts point to two key factors: Apple’s lack of significant updates to its 10th-gen Apple Watch and concerns over pricing.
Market Trends
The global wearables market grew 13% in the first quarter of 2025, with 46.6 million units sold. But Apple’s loss is Xiaomi’s gain. The Chinese company’s focus on affordable, feature-packed devices has resonated with consumers. As the market continues to evolve, it’s clear! that the battle for dominance will be fierce.
Consumer Priorities
A recent survey of European consumers revealed that price, battery life, and health monitoring features are the top factors influencing purchasing decisions. As the market becomes increasingly competitive, manufacturers will need to focus on building strong ecosystems and services, rather than just hardware. The integration of devices and subscription models will be crucial in driving user engagement and revenue.
In the end, the wearables market is all about giving consumers what they want: devices that are both stylish and functional, with a price tag that won’t break the bank. As the landscape continues to shift, one thing is certain: the battle for dominance is far from over.
Source: Canalys report