Smartwatch Shipments Grow 48%, Apple Dominates

The shipments of smartwatches grew 48% during the first quarter compared to the same time a year ago, according to a new forecast by Counterpoint research.

The top nine brands account for 75% of the market, driven by Apple, Samsung, Fitbit and Huawei. Apple is the market leader, at 36% share.

Apple Watch shipments grew 49% with ECG capability to be the most desirable feature. Samsung watch shipments grew 127%, which now has a market share of 11%.

“The heart rate sensor for health monitoring, GPS and pedometer sensors for fitness, and NFC embedded for payment are some of the key integrated technologies,” states Counterpoint research analyst Satyajit Sinha. “Related use-cases and in addition to notifications with cellular capability are driving the smartwatch adoption. However, limited battery life remains a pain point for consumer’s decision-making process, irrespective of region and price band.”

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