Chinese Smartphone Manufacturers Target iPhone Users with New Apps
Reports indicate that smartphone manufacturers in China are proactively promoting applications designed to assist users in transitioning away from the iPhone.
This information originates from a Financial Times article published on December 7, which outlines a strategic initiative by these companies to seize market share amid Apple’s challenges in introducing artificial intelligence (AI) innovations within this expansive smartphone landscape.
The report notes that the five dominant manufacturers have unveiled various programs this year aimed at facilitating the migration from Apple’s operating system or at encouraging users to employ Chinese devices alongside their Apple products.
Compounding these challenges, the Financial Times highlighted that China’s internet regulatory body has refrained from sanctioning new AI features from Apple, a situation exacerbated by rising geopolitical tensions with the United States.
In September, Apple reportedly postponed the launch of its sleeker iPhone variant, the iPhone Air, in China, ostensibly due to the necessity of obtaining regulatory approval.
“Chinese smartphone vendors are clearly advancing more rapidly and with increased transparency in AI development,” remarked Lucas Zhong, an analyst with consultancy firm Omdia.
“While these strategies may require time to yield substantial conversions, they will undoubtedly exert additional pressure on Apple’s operations within China.”
The report further elaborates that Chinese smartphone manufacturers have encountered significant obstacles in attracting Apple aficionados, largely due to Apple’s streamlined process for transferring applications and data to new devices.
However, with the advent of AI-enhanced functionalities and innovations such as foldable smartphones, these companies are increasingly optimistic about their ability to captivate Apple users.
For instance, the latest offering from Honor facilitates users in discovering discounts by comparing various coupon platforms, expediting taxi bookings through integration with diverse ride-hailing services, and generating engaging short videos.
“Apple represents an exemplary company from which our entire industry should derive lessons, set benchmarks, and strive to outperform,” stated Xiangdong Li, AI product director for Honor’s Magic operating system, in comments to the Financial Times. “If Apple lags, it creates an excellent opportunity for us, doesn’t it?”
Concurrently, a recent report from global market research firm Counterpoint suggested that Apple is poised to surpass Samsung as the leading smartphone vendor worldwide, with projections to maintain that position until at least 2029.
“In addition to the overwhelmingly positive market reception for the iPhone 17 series, the upward trajectory in shipment forecasts is significantly influenced by the consignment cycle nearing a pivotal transition,” asserted Counterpoint Senior Analyst Yang Wang in a press release.
“Consumers who acquired smartphones during the COVID-19 surge are now entering their upgrade phase.”
Source link: Pymnts.com.
