iPhone Air, the thinnest iPhone ever made, sold out within minutes of its official launch in China on Friday. The strong demand highlights the enduring popularity of Apple in one of its most important markets, even as competition from local smartphone brands grows.
Record-Breaking Launch Day
Pre-sales for the iPhone Air began at 9 a.m. local time after receiving Chinese regulatory approval. The model supports only e-SIM and was launched in China more than a month after most other countries. Online pre-orders opened at 8 p.m. on Apple’s Chinese website and major e-commerce platforms like JD.com and Tmall. All available units were gone by 8:05 p.m.
Physical Apple Stores in major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Tianjin also saw long lines. Shipping for online orders has already been delayed by one to two weeks. Analysts estimate hundreds of thousands of units may have been sold during the first wave, though Apple has not released official figures.
Tim Cook’s High-Profile Visit
The successful launch followed a strategic visit to China by Apple CEO Tim Cook. During his trip, Cook met Vice-Premier He Lifeng and Commerce Minister Wang Wentao to discuss trade ties, Apple’s growth plans, and cooperation with local partners.
Cook also visited developers, suppliers, and universities, including Tsinghua University School of Economics and Management, where he announced a donation to support environmental leadership programs. His visit drew millions of views on Chinese social media, generating buzz ahead of the launch.
Product Features and Pricing
The iPhone Air is just 5.1 mm thick, making it the slimmest iPhone ever. It comes with the upgraded A18 chip, enhanced camera features, and improved battery life. It is priced at 5,999 yuan (around $845 USD), targeting consumers who prefer premium and lightweight smartphones.
Competitive Market Landscape
Apple currently holds a 15% market share in China, behind Vivo at 18% and Huawei at 16%. The overall smartphone market declined 3% year-on-year in Q3. Yet Apple’s strong launch performance signals loyal demand despite tough competition from Huawei’s foldable phones and Xiaomi’s AI-focused devices.
Strengthening Local Ties
Apple has also expanded investments in Chinese supply chains and announced new R&D centers, including a research lab in Shenzhen. It is working with Beijing Anzhen Hospital to use Apple Watch for heart health monitoring. These steps highlight Apple’s commitment to innovation and long-term growth in China.
The iPhone Air’s rapid sell-out proves Apple’s strong brand appeal in China. Backed by Tim Cook’s well-timed visit and growing local partnerships, Apple has managed to generate massive excitement and reinforce its position in a challenging, competitive market.
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