Apple AirPods were the top-selling TWS earbuds in Q3 2020

The global wearables market is growing. This can be ascertained from a Counterpoint report, which states that the annual TWS earbuds shipment is expected to grow 83% to 238 million units, while the smartwatch shipment is expected to witness a 2% increase to tip the 100-million mark in the third quarter of 2020.

The same report also talks about the popularity of the Apple AirPods.

As per a report by the research firm, Apple AirPods led the market in terms of the TWS earbuds shipment in the third quarter of 2020. The device captured 29% of the market share. It was followed by Xiaomi, Samsung and JBL each of which captured a 13%, 5% and 5% market share respectively. The company also led the market in terms of smartwatch shipments. The report says that Apple shipped 29% of its Apple Watches during Q3 2020.

“Apple’s powerful iOS ecosystem, typically comprised of consumers with larger disposable incomes, has been the main driver for growth – especially in terms of revenues. High-end stalwart Samsung has also performed consistently,” said senior analyst Sujeong Lim.

While the premium wearable segment saw significant growth, the research firm also predicted a huge potential in the budget wearables segment. “In Q3 2020, half of the top 10 were budget brands with sub-$50 and even sub-$20 offerings; Xiaomi best illustrated the trend as it consolidated its number two spot,” the report said.

Apart from Xiaomi, Realme emerged as another budget brand in the top 10 TWS earbuds market in the third quarter of the year.

“Building on strong hearables momentum, recent entry into smartwatches and strength in online, Realme could repeat its smartphone success to become 2021’s dark horse in wearables.” senior analyst Liz Lee commented.