Unisoc's Rise Reshapes the Global Smartphone Chip Market

Unisoc's Rise Reshapes the Global Smartphone Chip MarketThe smartphone chip market has long been dominated by MediaTek and Qualcomm. However, in recent years, Unisoc has emerged as a formidable force, becoming the world's third-largest smartphone chip supplier, with a market share equal to Apple's at 13%

Unisoc's Rise Reshapes the Global Smartphone Chip Market

The smartphone chip market has long been dominated by MediaTek and Qualcomm. However, in recent years, Unisoc has emerged as a formidable force, becoming the world's third-largest smartphone chip supplier, with a market share equal to Apple's at 13%.

According to data from market research firm Counterpoint, in the second quarter of this year, MediaTek captured a market share of 32%, up 1% year-on-year but down 9% quarter-on-quarter. Qualcomm followed closely with a market share of 31%, up 2% year-on-year and 4% quarter-on-quarter. Apple's market share, however, fell to 13%, down 6% year-on-year and 3% quarter-on-quarter.

Unisoc's rise has been particularly noteworthy. Despite a 1% year-on-year decline, it achieved a 4% quarter-on-quarter increase, matching Apple's performance and securing the third spot globally. This success can be attributed to its strong position in the mid-to-low-end market, with prominent brands like Nokia, Motorola, Xiaomi, and Vivo launching devices powered by Unisoc chips in overseas markets.

It's worth noting that MediaTek's lead over Qualcomm is shrinking. Last quarter, MediaTek held a 14% lead over Qualcomm, but now it's only a 1% advantage. As devices equipped with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen4 chipset are set to launch en masse in the upcoming Q4, Qualcomm could potentially surpass MediaTek and become the new king of the global smartphone chip market.

Furthermore, Huawei HiSilicon's strong comeback is evident. Currently ranked sixth globally, it holds a market share of 4%, demonstrating a 4% year-on-year and 2% quarter-on-quarter increase. With its continued expansion, Huawei HiSilicon aims to reclaim its former market dominance.

Overall, the global smartphone chip market landscape is undergoing significant transformations. Beyond MediaTek and Qualcomm, Unisoc and Huawei HiSilicon are making their presence felt, intensifying market competition for the future.

Market Share Breakdown:

• MediaTek: 32% market share, up 1% year-on-year, down 9% quarter-on-quarter

• Qualcomm: 31% market share, up 2% year-on-year, up 4% quarter-on-quarter

• Apple: 13% market share, down 6% year-on-year, down 3% quarter-on-quarter

• Unisoc: 13% market share, down 1% year-on-year, up 4% quarter-on-quarter

• Samsung: 6% market share, up 2% year-on-year, up 1% quarter-on-quarter

• Huawei HiSilicon: 4% market share, up 4% year-on-year, up 2% quarter-on-quarter

Conclusion:

Unisoc's rise and Huawei HiSilicon's strong comeback signal a more competitive landscape in the global smartphone chip market. The future holds exciting possibilities, with players vying for the coveted title of market leader.