The global high-level smartwatch market is poised for substantial growth in 2024, with a projected annual increase of 15%, according to a new report released on Monday by Counterpoint Research.
The report indicates that much of this expansion will be fueled by non-Apple smartphone users embracing either Google Wear OS-based smartwatches, in regions outside China, or Huawei HarmonyOS-based smartwatches within China.
Counterpoint Research analysts forecast that the share of Google Wear OS in regions outside China will rise to 27 percent in 2024 within the advanced smartwatch segment.
This growth trajectory is largely attributed to the availability of more advanced smartwatches powered by Wear OS, such as the recent integration seen in the Google Pixel and OnePlus Watch 2, alongside the revamped Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 series.
Anshika Jain, Senior Research Analyst, said, “We expect greater adoption of Google’s Android Wear (Wear OS) since these devices provide a robust third-party app experience, Google AI assistant, and precise health tracking, customisation and battery optimization.”
Additionally, the report highlights the burgeoning popularity of HarmonyOS, fueled by the rising demand for Huawei smartwatches in the Chinese market.
Associate Director Ethan Qi noted, "In 2023, HarmonyOS shipments surged nearly twofold, surpassing Apple's WatchOS. The share of HarmonyOS shipments is expected to further increase to 61 percent in China by 2024, up from 48 percent in 2023."
Regarding smartwatch chipsets, the report mentioned that Apple and Samsung currently dominate two-thirds of the advanced smartwatch market. It also predicts double-digit growth for Hengxuan and Qualcomm this year.
The findings indicate a significant shift in the landscape of the smartwatch market, with Google's Wear OS and Huawei's HarmonyOS emerging as key players alongside established competitors like Apple and Samsung.