Apple's iPhone has lost the numero uno position in China, after holding that position for five long years, according to market research firm Counterpoint's Market Monitor.

According to data released by the firm, Apple clocked sales of 12 million units for the iPhone 6S and iPhone 7 in 2016, constituting two percent of the overall smartphones sold in China last year.

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"Apple with slowing traction for its flagship iPhone 6S during last year saw its negative double-digit growth being somewhat offset by relatively healthy demand for the newer flagship iPhone 7 series in Q4 2016," the market research firm said.

Counterpoint revealed that the American tech giant's market share declined from 14.3 percent in 2015 to 10.4 percent last year.   

Apple's iPhone was dislodged from the number one position by China's Oppo Electronics, which clocked the sales of 17 million units last year, thanks to impressive sales of its flagship phone Oppo R9.

Oppo is one of the several Chinese smartphone brands promoting high-spec low-priced devices. This strategy is apparently causing a lot of problems for Apple and Samsung, not only in China but also in other global markets.   

The research firm claims that the iPhone had a tough time in 2016 in China, despite the fact that the smartphone shipments reached an all-time high figure, after clocking six percent year-on-year growth.     

Apple's next flagship phone, the iPhone 8, is slated to be launched next year. Counterpoint noted that the iPhone 8, with its "substantial upgrade from both design and components perspective," may change the fortune of the American tech giant in China.

Apple's struggle to keep its fortress intact in the lucrative Chinese market has forced the CEO Tim Cook in formulating a proactive strategy. Cook paid a visit to China twice last year to chalk out an investment strategy for the country.

He announced during the visit that Apple would be soon opening its first research and development center in the country.   

TagsIphone China, Apple China, iPhone Sales in China, apple