iPhone Air Sells Out in Minutes During Cook’s China Visit
Apple’s new iPhone Air has become an instant sensation in China, with stocks completely vanishing within minutes of its Friday launch. The ultra-thin e-SIM only model sold out across major cities despite ongoing US-China trade tensions.
Key Takeaways
- iPhone Air sold out across China within minutes of 9 AM launch
- Online orders now face 1-2 week delivery delays
- Launch coincided with Tim Cook’s high-profile China visit
- Apple maintains 15% market share in competitive smartphone space
The immediate sell-out demonstrates Apple’s continued stronghold in the Chinese premium smartphone market, even as domestic competitors like Huawei and Xiaomi intensify their competition.
Tim Cook’s Strategic China Visit
The iPhone Air launch aligned perfectly with Apple CEO Tim Cook’s second visit to China this year. During his trip, Cook met with senior Chinese officials including Vice-Premier He Lifeng and Commerce Minister Wang Wentao.
Discussions focused on bilateral trade relations and Apple’s expansion plans in China. Cook emphasized that cooperation between the US and China remains “essential for global economic progress,” according to official statements.
As chair of Tsinghua University’s School of Economics and Management advisory board, Cook used the visit to reinforce Apple’s long-term commitment to the Chinese market.
Expanding Local Partnerships
Beyond government meetings, Cook announced significant new collaborations with Chinese institutions. Through a Weibo post, he revealed a partnership with Beijing’s renowned Anzhen Hospital to research heart health monitoring using Apple Watch data from Chinese users.
Cook also committed to a substantial donation to Tsinghua University supporting environmental education and sustainability programs, aligning with Apple’s broader environmental leadership initiatives.
Market Competition Intensifies
Despite the iPhone Air’s successful launch, Apple faces intense competition in China’s shrinking smartphone market. Recent data shows the overall market contracted by 3% year-on-year in Q3 2025.
Current market share distribution places Vivo at the top with 18%, followed by Huawei at 16% and Apple maintaining 15% market share. Xiaomi and Oppo continue to compete closely in the remaining segments.
The iPhone Air’s immediate success provides Apple with crucial momentum as it navigates both geopolitical challenges and fierce local competition in one of its most important markets.
