Apple retains lead with Apple Watch
Global wearable band shipments fell 2% year over year in 2Q26, according to the latest estimates from Omdia.
The data reveals that smartwatch shipments grew 6% on the strength of advanced sports models, while new screenless basic bands gained momentum.
What they want
“The 2Q wearables market is splitting into two clear winners,” said Jason Low, Research Director at Omdia. “Consumers want either minimalist, screenless trackers they can wear 24/7 or feature-rich sports watches with superior accuracy and multi-day battery life. Premium and screenless devices are gaining ground, while basic watches and mid-tier smartwatches are being left behind.”
The basic band category declined 9% as major vendors adjusted launch cadence and product lifecycles, while basic watches slipped 3% amid waning appeal.
Apple retained 46% global share in the smartwatch category.
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