According to the latest research from Strategy Analytics, global smartwatch shipments grew 67% annually to reach 10 million units in the third quarter (Q3) of 2018. The Apple Watch maintained first position with 45% global smartwatch marketshare, while Fitbit jumped into second place, overtaking Samsung and Garmin.
The research group says smartwatch shipments grew annually from six million units in Q3 2017 to 10.0 million in Q3 2018. Apple shipped 4.5 million smartwatches worldwide in Q3 2018, rising 25% from 3.6 million units in Q3 2017.
While far ahead of the pack, Apple’s global smartwatch marketshare slipped to 45% this quarter, down from 60% a year ago. Neil Mawston, executive director at Strategy Analytics, says Apple is facing growing competition from a “revitalized” Fitbit and Samsung, but adds that the recent launch of Apple’s new Watch Series 4 model was a badly needed addition to its armory.”
