Global Smartwatch Shipments Grew 4% in Q1 2026, Led by Apple

The global smartwatch market grew 4% year-over-year in the first quarter of 2026, according to Counterpoint Research's Global Smartwatch Shipments Tracker, continuing a recovery that began in 2025 after a weaker 2024. Apple captured the largest shipment share at 23%, with North America contributing more than half of the brand's total shipments.

China's smartwatch market grew 15% year-over-year in the quarter, with Huawei holding roughly 40% domestic market share, followed by Imoo and Xiaomi. Analysts attributed part of the China growth to government electronics subsidy programs alongside strong local brand ecosystems.

Average selling prices rose 6% year-over-year globally, a sign that consumers are increasingly choosing premium smartwatches with more advanced sensors and health-tracking features rather than entry-level devices. Manufacturers have responded by adding more health-monitoring capabilities across their newest lineups.

The data offers useful context for anyone weighing a smartwatch against a traditional mechanical or quartz watch: the market is not just growing in unit volume, but shifting toward buyers willing to pay more for advanced features — a different value proposition than the craftsmanship-and-permanence case traditionally made for mechanical watches.