Apple’s AI rollout in China has been slower than many users expected and Chinese smartphone brands are ready to seize the moment. Honor, Oppo, Vivo, Xiaomi, and Huawei are stepping in, offering smart features and apps that make switching from an iPhone smoother than ever.
Imagine moving all your contacts, photos, messages, and even app data to a new phone in minutes. Honor’s “Device Clone” app makes this possible with a simple QR scan. Oppo users can instantly manage calls, notifications, and messages on their new devices. It’s the kind of convenience that could make even loyal iPhone users think twice.
Then there’s AI. Oppo’s assistant can track spending from screenshots, offer real-time gym guidance via the camera, and help with daily tasks. Honor adds perks like coupon comparisons, ride-hailing support, and instant short video creation. For Apple users itching for smarter, more interactive features, these phones now offer a tempting alternative.
The timing couldn’t be better. In the third quarter of 2025, iPhone shipments in China dipped slightly, while local brands gained momentum. Vivo even overtook Apple to lead the market with an 18.5% share.
Analysts say these moves could sway some iPhone users. Yet Apple still holds the premium crown with loyal fans and a strong ecosystem. For now, Chinese phone makers are betting that a mix of easy switching and AI-powered tools might be enough to make Apple fans curious and maybe even switch.
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