Apple Sees iPhone Comeback in China, Upgraders Hit All-Time High

After months of concern over slowing iPhone sales in China, Apple now says things are looking up again. During its Q3 2025 earnings call, the company confirmed that revenue in Greater China grew 4% year over year—a welcome rebound in one of Apple’s most important markets.

A Record Quarter for iPhone Upgrades

According to CEO Tim Cook, more people in mainland China upgraded their iPhones last quarter than ever before. While he didn’t share exact numbers, he called it a record-breaking quarter for upgraders, showing renewed interest from existing users.

Government Subsidies Gave Sales a Boost

One big reason for the turnaround? Government-backed subsidies. Apple took part in these local programs, which helped lower the cost of some Apple products for Chinese consumers. Cook said the subsidies, along with strong demand across Apple’s product lineup, helped drive momentum.

iPhone Still a Top Seller Around the World

Apple’s CFO Kevan Parekh added that the iPhone remained one of the top-selling smartphones not only in China, but also in the U.S., UK, Australia, and Japan during the quarter. He also pointed out that Apple saw growth across every region, with double-digit gains in Europe, Greater China, and the wider Asia-Pacific.

Apple’s bounce-back in China marks a significant win, especially as the company heads into the busy fall launch season.