Counterpoint: vivo stays as the top smartphone maker in China (Q2 2022)

Based on the latest data from international market research firm Counterpoint, vivo has secured its spot as the top smartphone brand based on Q2 2022 sales.

File photo: The mighty vivo X80 Pro

vivo is on top in China!

In particular, vivo recorded a 19.8 percent market share to beat HONOR with 18.3 percent of the pie. vivo managed to keep its lead over the former HUAWEI sub-brand despite a slight dip from its 21.1 percent Q1 2022 market share and a 14.2 percent YoY decrease in Chinese smartphone sales in the same quarter.

Data from Counterpoint Research

HONOR is followed by OPPO with 17.9 percent. Apple has 15.5 percent. Xiaomi recorded 14.9 percent. Former leader HUAWEI captured 6.9 percent and realme recorded 2.4 percent.

Research Analyst Mengmeng Zhang said,

During the quarter, vivo maintained its leadership. The mid-to-high-end S12 series helped vivo grab a good share in the $250-$399 segment. Sub-brand iQOO also received positive market feedback, especially from younger customers.

Senior Analyst Ivan Lam said that the decrease in Chinese smartphone sales is due to the general economic struggle that the country is experiencing. It is essential to note that during that time, full or partial lockdowns were implemented in China's major cities to regulate the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

The press release also notes that

Despite the challenges, vivo continues to provide the market with premium and reliable smartphones. vivo is expected to pursue its top position by reinforcing its brand in the high-end segment. Moreover, vivo strategically aims to penetrate the trend for premium foldable smartphones. Foldable smartphones project profitable sales in the latter quarters of this year. 

Meanwhile, vivo aims to bring its top-tier performance to the Philippine market with the launch of the T Series and X80 SEries in Q2 2022. These phones are designed to solidify the brand's position in the upper mid-range to the high-end smartphone segment.

Anyway, let's hope that vivo will also bring its foldable phones to the country.