Global smartwatch shipments declined by 4% year-over-year (YoY) in quarter two (Q2) of 2026, according to Counterpoint Research’s Global Smartwatch Shipments Tracker, Q2 2026. However, it was good news for Apple.
China-based Huawei led the market shipments in Q2 2026, while Apple recorded the fastest YoY growth among the top five brands. The tech giant recorded growth across all regions, driven by the continued adoption of its refreshed late-2025 lineup.
The Apple Watch now has 40.2% of the global smartwatch market, compared to 38.5% in the second quarter of 2025. That’s 14% year-over-year growth.
“The Apple Watch Series 11 and Watch SE 3 together accounted for over 80% of Apple’s global shipments in Q2 2026,” Counterpoint Principal Analyst Anshika Jain said. “China was the primary driver of Huawei’s growth, accounting for approximately 80% of its global shipments.”
The second quarter of 2026 marked the first market decline in a year. The research group says the decline was primarily driven by continued weakness in the basic smartwatch segment, as consumers delayed upgrades of low-cost devices due to limited monitoring capabilities. At the same time, users of premium smartwatches postponed purchases in anticipation of upcoming product launches, leading to longer replacement cycles.
Regionally, China sustained its leadership in global smartwatch shipments, reaching its highest-ever shipment share of 38% in Q2 2026. China witnessed 7% YoY shipment growth, just behind North America. This was driven by strong consumer preference for local brands, namely Huawei and Imoo.
However, Counterpoint notes that Apple recorded the fastest growth among the top five brands in the region, signaling its recovery following the decline seen in the same quarter of 2025. In addition, China’s consumer electronics subsidy program helped boost smartwatch sales in the market, notes the research group.
I hope you’ll help support Apple World Today by becoming a patron. Almost all our income is from Patreon support and sponsored posts. Patreon pricing ranges from $2 to $10 a month. Thanks in advance for your support.
