Huawei Enjoy 90 Pro Max vs. iPhone 17 Pro: The 2026 Smartphone Sales Showdown

The smartphone landscape in 2026 is witnessing an unprecedented rivalry as the Huawei Enjoy 90 Pro Max makes significant waves in the Chinese market. Recent data for the 16th week of the year reveals a fascinating shift in consumer behavior, where Huawei's latest offering managed to surpass the iPhone 17 Pro in total sales volume. However, while the numbers are impressive, a closer look at the rankings reveals a more complex narrative regarding brand loyalty and market dominance.

Analyzing the Shift in Smartphone Market Rankings

Analysis from RDObservation regarding the Chinese smartphone sales market for mid-2026 highlights a fierce competition. While the Huawei Enjoy 90 Pro Max previously held a higher position, it has technically slipped to third place. This movement allowed Apple's premium handsets to reclaim the top of the leaderboard. Specifically, the iPhone 17 Pro Max has secured the first position, followed closely by the base iPhone 17 model in second.

The data suggests that while Huawei's mid-to-high-range devices are gaining massive traction, the "craze" for Apple’s flagship Pro Max series remains a formidable force in China. The difference in market share between the top three models is marginal, indicating that consumers are oscillating between the innovative features of HarmonyOS devices and the established ecosystem of Apple.

Interestingly, the top five list isn't just a two-horse race. The iPhone 17 Pro takes the fourth spot, while the Huawei Mate 80 rounds out the top five. This distribution confirms that both companies are successfully capturing the premium segment of the market with their respective flagship technologies.

Market Share Distribution in China

Beyond individual model rankings, the overall brand performance paints a clear picture of Huawei's resurgence. For the 16th week of 2026, Huawei maintained a significant lead with a 23.2% total market share. This dominance underscores the brand's successful recovery and the high demand for its integrated AI features and hardware capabilities.

The competition for the second spot is incredibly tight. Both Apple and OPPO are tied with a 15.8% market share. They are followed by Vivo at 15%, Xiaomi at 14.2%, and Honor at 10.5%. These figures illustrate a highly fragmented yet competitive market where even small percentage shifts can lead to major changes in brand standing.

As we move into the second quarter of 2026, the industry is watching closely to see if Huawei can sustain its momentum or if Apple's aggressive marketing and ecosystem updates will allow it to bridge the gap. The battle for the "smartphone crown" in China is far from over, and the Enjoy 90 Pro Max remains a pivotal player in this high-stakes game.

Which smartphone model is currently leading sales in China?

As of the 16th week of 2026, the iPhone 17 Pro Max holds the number one spot in sales, followed by the standard iPhone 17.

How did the Huawei Enjoy 90 Pro Max perform against the iPhone 17 Pro?

The Huawei Enjoy 90 Pro Max successfully surpassed the iPhone 17 Pro in sales volume during this specific period, though it currently ranks third overall behind Apple's top two models.

What is Huawei's total market share in the Chinese smartphone market?

Huawei is currently leading the market with a 23.2% share, maintaining a comfortable lead over competitors like Apple, OPPO, and Vivo.

Are there any other Huawei models in the top five?

Yes, the Huawei Mate 80 is also a top performer, currently holding the fifth position in the sales rankings.

Which brands are tied for the second-largest market share?

Apple and OPPO are currently tied for second place, both holding a 15.8% share of the Chinese market.

🔎 In conclusion, the 2026 sales data highlights a vibrant and shifting smartphone market where Huawei has successfully re-established its dominance in China. While Apple continues to hold the peak positions with its premium iPhone 17 series, the success of the Huawei Enjoy 90 Pro Max proves that local consumers are increasingly drawn to Huawei's innovative hardware and software ecosystem. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether this trend continues or if a new market leader will emerge.