Vivo leads China smartphone market for the first time in March: Counterpoint

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Vivo leads China smartphone market for the first time in March: Counterpoint



Vivo has overtaken its nearest rival Oppo to emerge as the top smartphone vendor in the China market in week 11 (March 8-14) of 2021, riding on the strong performance of its budget model Y3 and S9, according to according to Counterpoint's China Smartphone Weekly Tracker.

Vivo (including iQOO) was again able to jump ahead of Oppo (excluding Realme and OnePlus) in week 13 to hold a market share of 24% while Oppo garnered a 21% share.

Huawei (excluding Honor) stood at a distant third position with a market share of 15% in week 13 as it continues to battle with U.S. sanctions and now chip shortage.

It is to be noted that Vivo was one of the first brands in the market to launch 5G devices, with the Nex 3 5G and iQOO Pro 5G in August 2019 and September 2019, respectively.

Its 5G portfolio has seen strong sales too, accounting for more than 76% of its sales in February, up from a meagre 0.5% in August 2019.

Currently, Vivo's portfolio includes the NEX, X, S, Y series, and sub-brand iQOO.

The NEX and X series are Vivo's flagship series focused on camera capabilities while the S and U series are focused towards customers seeking value for money smartphones. iQOO is focused on online channels.

Additionally, Vivo signed a strategic partnership with German optical expert Carl Zeiss to strengthen its camera capabilities.

Oppo had been aggressive in January and February this year and became the top smartphone brand in China with the successful rebranding of Reno series and the strong momentum of A series in the mid-segment, the research firm said.

Ever since Huawei started to struggle due to US restrictions on the company, other Chinese smartphone manufacturers have been eager to take advantage.

"Vivo and Oppo are adopting aggressive market and product strategies, and we expect to see the two brands continue to jostle for the top spot in 2021," commented Senior Analyst Yang Wang on market dynamics.

Source: https://telecom.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/vivo-leads-china-smartphone-market-for-the-first-time-in-march-counterpoint/82067436