Share of the smart TV market in China 2021, by vendor

As of 2021, the companies with the highest market share in the Chinese smart television market were Xiaomi and Hisense, with a share of 14 percent. The market value of the Chinese smart TV segment amounted to over 152 billion yuan. In recent years, Chinese brands have also been able to increase their presence in overseas markets.

A new TV experience

Smart TVs are television sets with integrated internet connectivity and direct access to streaming, and on-demand content. Since media consumption has changed significantly in the past years, TVs reflect that change and offer a more personalized experience. With the advent of streaming services, online video platforms, and live streams, consumers have moved away from linear television programs. Consequently, smart TVs are the most popular television set feature among Chinese consumers.

China’s ascension to the top tier

For many years, Chinese consumer electronics have been notorious for being cheap knockoffs, but the latest generations have been able to challenge established brands. Like Japanese and South Korean products in the 1980s and 1990s, Chinese electronics brands have begun producing for the lower-tier market before catching up technologically and eventually becoming a viable alternative for consumers globally. Through these strategies, Chinese smart TV manufacturers such as Xiaomi and TCL have been able to establish a strong competitive presence at home and abroad.