Fitbit Declines While Apple Watch Boosts Sales In Q4 2016
Vittorio HernandezThere was a significant change in the wearables market in the fourth quarter of 2016 as Fitbit suffered a contraction in shipment and reduced its market share. At the same time, Apple Watch gained and reported its best quarter ever.
Data from IDC showed that for Q4 2016, Apple shipped about 4.6 million Apple Watch units, up from 4.1 million for the same quarter in 2015. This resulted in Apple’s share in the wearable market having a 13.6 percent share of the market, down from 14.1 percent despite the hike in shipment.
Apple Reduces Gap With Fitbit
However, it managed to reduce the gap with market leader Fitbit which shipped 6.5 million units in Q4, down from 8.4 million. It resulted in Fitbit shrinking its market share to 19.2 percent from 29 percent MacRumors reports.
Making up the top 5 are Xiaomi in second place with a shipment of 5.2 million units (15.2 percent market share), Garmin in fourth place with 2.1 million shipment (6.2 percent), and Samsung 1.9 million (5.6 percent). Marketwatch notes that Fitbit suffered from “an abysmal holiday shopping season” that the company had to lay off 110 workers. However, global shipment of wearables actually grew, but the bonanza went to Xiaomi and Apple Watch which reported higher shipments.
Fitbit Assuages Investors
As a result, Fitbit reported a 19 percent decline in year-over-year revenue to $573.8 million which was short of forecast by analysts. The Q4 loss was a first time for Fitbit, but to placate worried investors, the smartwatch maker shared its plans to further boost business by using the assets of Pebbles which it purchased in 2016. Meanwhile, what helped Apple Watch improve was a change in marketing strategies.
Rather that position the Apple Watch as a fashion accessory, the Cupertino-based tech giant emphasizes the fitness capabilities of its smart timepieces. The company is also constantly updating the watchOS by releasing in late January watchOS 3.1.1.
© Copyright 2020 Mobile & Apps, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.most read
related stories
more stories from News
Delve into the complexities of managing screen time for children as parents navigate between practicality and idealism.
ernest hamiltonDiscover why the Pixel 7a outperforms the new Pixel 8a in this detailed comparison. Learn about the advantages in affordability, color options, and feature parity. Read now to make an informed choice!
ernest hamiltonDiscover the future of smartphone audio with Moondrop's MIAD 01. Explore its dual audio jacks and premium DACs in this in-depth review. Ready to elevate your music experience? Read now!
ernest hamiltonUnveiling Android's AI evolution with Gemini integration, Discover how AI is poised to combat scams and revolutionize security. Stay informed and secure!
ernest hamiltonDiscover how Samsung's innovative Knox Journals are revolutionizing user privacy and data control. Learn how cutting-edge features empower users to take control of their devices and safeguard their personal information.
ernest hamiltonThe latest AI breakthroughs unveiled at Google I/O 2024, from Project Astra's revolutionary AI assistance to Gemini integration in Google Workspace and Android 15 innovations. Dive into the future of technology with seamless AI experiences.
ernest hamiltonGoogle teases a new AI camera feature ahead of I/O 2024, offering real-time contextual recognition and voice interaction on Pixel devices. Discover how this innovative technology enhances your mobile experience.
ernest hamiltonDiscover the latest insights into Apple's highly anticipated iPhone 16 Pro, from its innovative display and camera advancements to powerful performance and software integration. Stay informed as anticipation builds for the official unveiling.
ernest hamilton