The smartwatch market experienced its first decline ever, with shipments down by 7% in 2024 compared to 2023, largely due to Apple's reduced appeal. A report by Counterpoint noted that the Apple Watch saw a 19% drop in shipments, particularly in North America where minimal feature upgrades and absent models led consumers to delay purchases. Additional factors such as patent disputes affecting the blood oxygen sensor and heightened competition from brands like Huawei further complicated Apple's situation, indicating potential long-term issues for the once-dominant smartwatch leader.
Apple Watch witnessed a decline in momentum on its 10th anniversary, despite the launch of the S10 series. The biggest driver of the decline was North America, where the absence of the Ultra 3 and minimal feature upgrades in the S10 lineup led consumers to hold back purchases.
Apple is fighting several forces that could keep its shipments lower, including a lost patent case over its blood oxygen sensor feature, which frustrated many customers.
Tighter competition and weaker upgrade cycles fueled a 19% decline in Apple Watch's shipment rate, highlighting the increasing challenges Apple faces in the smartwatch market.
Other brands, like Huawei, implemented features like blood oxygen sensors in their devices, contributing to their growth while Apple struggles with customer dissatisfaction.
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