Apple's iPhone sales in China were down more than 30% year over year for the first week of January, while competitors such as Xiaomi and Huawei have "remained much stronger" with flat sales, according to a Sunday note from Jefferies analysts.
Jefferies analysts said they believe Apple's iPhone volume will fall by double digits this year in China, adding that they "expect Apple to have even higher revenue pressure in China in 2024."
Huawei gained the most smartphone market share in China in 2023, according to the note, rising about 6% year over year.
Meanwhile, Apple's market share in China has fallen around 4% year over year, according to the note.
The Jefferies analysts said iPhone discounts in China are on the rise, which is likely part of Apple's effort to "defend its share."
Persons:
Piper Sandler, — CNBC's Michael Bloom
Organizations:
Huawei, Jefferies, Barclays, Apple, CNBC PRO
Locations:
China