The Top App Stores in China

In the field of mobile apps, the Chinese market presents both significant challenges and opportunities for app developers. With over 1.4 billion people and a large user base of mobile devices, China has become a lucrative app distribution market. However, the Chinese app market differs from other countries in that a substantial number of third-party app stores are the primary channels for mobile app distribution.

Android dominates the Chinese mobile operating system market with a market share of up to 76%. Yet, due to regulatory restrictions on Google in China, Chinese users cannot access the full-featured Android experience. Consequently, many Chinese smartphone manufacturers have developed localized versions of Android. Xiaomi was one of the first companies to start customizing the Android system, launching its customized Android system called MIUI in 2012. This inspired other Chinese brands to follow suit and develop their customized Android operating systems.

The absence of Google services and app frameworks has given rise to third-party app stores, which have become the main source of app distribution in China. These app stores are developed by tech giants like Tencent, Alibaba, Huawei, and Xiaomi, offering a variety of applications and services tailored to Chinese users.

The Top Chinese App Stores

• Huawei App Gallery: With approximately 44% market share, Huawei AppGallery is a leading app store in China. Huawei, one of the largest smartphone manufacturers in China, has built a robust app and service ecosystem for its users.

• Tencent App Store: Tencent, one of Asia's largest internet companies, operates the Tencent App Store with around 16% market share. It seamlessly integrates with popular platforms like WeChat and offers a diverse selection of applications and games.

• Oppo App Store: Oppo, a well-known Chinese smartphone brand, has its own app store called the Oppo App Store, holding about 19% market share. It provides exclusive content and promotional activities for Oppo smartphone users.

• Vivo App Store: Vivo, another major Chinese smartphone brand, has its dedicated app store, the Vivo App Store, with approximately 17% market share, offering a wide range of applications and services to Vivo users.

• Xiaomi App Store: Xiaomi, known for its affordable and feature-rich smartphones, has the Mi App Store, occupying around 10% of the market share, providing a plethora of application and service choices for Xiaomi users.

These app stores, along with others like Baidu Mobile Assistant, 360 Mobile Assistant, and Samsung App Store, create a diverse and competitive app market in China.

To succeed in the Chinese app market, developers must understand the characteristics and preferences of each app store and its user base. This can be challenging for foreign developers from different language and culture backgrounds. NextAppMarket is a trusted partner that can provide the professional knowledge and support needed to navigate the complexities of the Chinese app ecosystem and maximize app potential.

Don't miss out on the significant opportunities in the Chinese app market. Contact NextAppMarket now to learn how we can help you succeed in this thriving market.

Published at November 7th, 2023