If you're a flagship smartphone owner in South Africa, you're most likely going to own a Samsung or Apple device. The pair have dominated the market locally for a number of years now, leaving little room for others to compete. That might soon change, however, as Huawei has reported an increase in its global market share to 8.5%. The Chinese manufacturer cites the recent launch of the P9 and P9 Plus devices, which landed in SA a few weeks ago, as a significant factor in Huawei's recent rise.

Gunning for top spot?

Both devices were unveiled in April, earlier this year, sporting dual cameras courtesy of their newly forged partnership with Leica. The move has proved beneficial for Huawei, as an estimated 2.6 million P9-branded smartphones were sold in the six weeks following their launch. This resulted in a 130% increase in sales, compared to its predecessor - the P8 (review).

The warm reception from consumers for Huawei's latest flagships have had a similarly positive effect for the company locally as well. “P9 and P9 lite device sales in South Africa have exceeded even our bullish expectations. South African consumers are smart buyers and recognise the combination of features, style, and the Leica co-engineered camera, making the P9 the best smartphone buy available,” said Charlene Munilall, general manager for Huawei Consumer Business Group South Africa.

Doubling down

Adding credence to Munilall's belief is IDC's mobile tracker results for Q1 2016, which saw Huawei place third globally among manufacturers, sitting behind Samsung and Apple in first and second spot respectively. According to Huawei, they were able to ship 28.3 million units in total for Q1, which saw a 64% year-on-year increase.

While all these numbers are strong indicators of the company's rise to prominence, whether or not it can usurp either Samsung or Apple, as well as fend off competition from fellow Chinese manufacturers like Xiaomi, OPPO and vivo, will prove a clearer indication growth. Following the success of the P9 and P9 Plus' launch in SA, Huawei is likely going to double down on its mobile investments to maintain its upward trajectory.