The latest data from market research firm IDC estimates Apple Watch sales totaled 3.9 million worldwide in the third quarter of 2015, making it the second most popular wearable device behind Fitbit fitness trackers during the three-month period ending September 30.
Apple posted a slight increase from the previous quarter, mostly the result of additional markets and channels coming on line. End-user attention has been going toward its entry-level and least expensive Sport line, to which Apple responded by introducing gold and rose gold models. In addition, Apple released watchOS 2, bringing native third-party applications to the device.
Fitbit shipped an estimated 4.7 million fitness trackers for 22.2% market share in the third quarter, compared to Apple's estimated 18.6% market share. Apple Watch shipments grew over IDC's second quarter estimate of 3.6 million, but both Apple and Fitbit ceded some market share to Xiaomi and other vendors.
Chinese rival Xiaomi remained in third place with an estimated 3.7 million wearables shipped in the quarter, representing 17.4% market share. Garmin and BBK rounded off the top five with 900,000 (4.1%) and 700,000 (3.1%) wearables shipped respectively, while all other vendors accounted for a combined 7.3 million shipments and 34.6% market share.
IDC estimates that wearable shipments totaled 21 million worldwide in the third quarter, growth of 197.6% compared to the 7.1 million units shipped in the year-ago quarter. IDC said the average smartwatch price was around $400, while basic bands and trackers averaged $94. China continues to be the fastest-growing wearables market, especially for lower-priced fitness trackers.
Apple has not disclosed Apple Watch sales numbers since the device launched in April, instead grouping the wrist-worn accessory with iPod, Apple TV and Beats Electronics accessories under an "Other Products" category in quarterly earnings reports. But when asked, Apple CEO Tim Cook and other executives consistently remain upbeat about current sales.
Top Rated Comments
Adjust for holiday season and its 18-20 million units a year.
Watch2 will probably see 40-60% increase in unit sales. That easily gets you to 30-35 million units a year.
That gets you to $15 billion in sales in year 2.
By year 5 Watch sales can easily be $40 billion.
That would make Watch bigger than iPad and Mac.
But go ahead and poo poo the product now in its infant stages. Those who lack vision
An interesting product, I tried to like it but after a few weeks it lost its luster, didn't do anything to earn its place on my wrist so I returned it.
In fairness I have a large selection of gorgeous handmade luxury Swiss Chronographs. By comparison Apple looks cheap, plain, and just too annoying.
I don't need notifications, I'm organized and not too lazy to take my iPhone out of my pocket to see its highly useful 5.5" display.
:D