Record-Breaking Wearable Shipments!

In a thrilling start to 2025, a staggering 46.6 million wearable devices were shipped globally from January 1 to March 31, marking a remarkable 13% increase year-over-year, as reported by Canalys. The competition is fierce, but one name has emerged at the forefront: Xiaomi!

Xiaomi: The Unrivaled Leader!

Xiaomi claimed the crown with an incredible 8.7 million shipments, securing a dominant 19% market share. This explosive growth, a staggering 44% increase compared to last year, can be attributed to their updated Smart Band and Watch series, along with the introduction of budget-friendly Redmi series products. In fact, the Redmi Band 5 has captured the hearts of consumers, becoming one of the top-selling wearables in the first quarter!

Apple and Huawei: Chasing the Leader!

Following closely behind is Apple, which shipped an estimated 7.6 million devices, capturing 16% of the market. Huawei is not far behind, holding third place with 7.1 million shipments and a 15% share, largely thanks to the hot demand for their Watch GT and Watch Fit series.

Emerging Contenders!

Samsung secured its position with 4.9 million shipments and 11% of the market, fueled by strong sales in emerging markets. Garmin rounded out the top five, delivering 1.8 million wearables and claiming a 4% market share.

What Do Consumers Really Want?

In a fascinating dive into consumer preferences, Canalys also found that price and battery life top the wishlist for buyers in Europe looking to purchase smartwatches. Other important factors include health-tracking capabilities, brand reputation, and design, while sporty features don’t appear to sway consumers as much.

The Future of Wearables: What’s Next?

Looking ahead, experts at Canalys predict that the battle for dominance in the wearables market will hinge on seamless ecosystem integration and exceptional post-purchase services. Moreover, subscription-based models are expected to play a pivotal role in increasing user engagement and driving brand revenues.