The sudden resignation of Honor CEO George Zhao has raised some eyebrows, as the Chinese smartphone brand's market share continues to decline. Analysts believe that Honor's major shareholders are dissatisfied with Honor's weak sales performance ahead of its IPO.

The mobile phone ODM industry continues to grapple with significant challenges, including pressure from both suppliers and customers, while being characterized by labor-intensive processes and low profit margins. In response to persistent losses, leading companies like Huaqin and Wingtech have begun pursuing new growth opportunities.

Recent shifts in the global smartphone manufacturing landscape highlight diversification efforts among iPhone manufacturers. Tata Electronics is exploring partnerships with major Android brands, while Luxshare expands through acquisitions, reducing reliance on Apple. As Taiwanese firms pivot towards AI and other sectors, this trend underscores the need for new revenue streams amid a maturing market.

Since launching its "Pioneer Program", Huawei has garnered consistent attention in the smartphone market. Having achieved a strong resurgence in China, the company is now aiming to reclaim its position on the global stage.

Lenovo is set to more than double its smartphone and notebook production in India from 6.4 million in fiscal 2024 to over 12 million units in fiscal 2025, driven by the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme. This move aims to reduce imports, foster a local component ecosystem, and enhance Lenovo's manufacturing footprint in India.

Ericsson announced on January 14 that 5G Standalone (SA) and 5G advanced networks are poised to become the next major focus for the mobile industry. This shift comes as telecom operators seek to adopt performance-driven business models and provide differentiated services for customers.

Tata Electronics is reportedly in negotiations with Xiaomi and Oppo to assemble smartphones, marking a strategic expansion beyond iPhone case manufacturing. This move reflects a trend where established EMS/ODM providers pursue more profitable ventures, creating opportunities for emerging EMS providers amid the global shift in production beyond China into emerging economies.

Taiwan's three major telecom operators —Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, and Far EasTone Telecommunications— all delivered stellar results in 2024, driven by merger synergies, rising average revenue per user (ARPU), and successful B2B market expansion. All three companies achieved record-high revenues and demonstrated impressive operational improvements.

Chinese officials are evaluating a potential option that involves Elon Musk acquiring the US operations of TikTok if the company fails to fend off a controversial ban on the short-video app, according to people familiar with the matter.

These are the most-read DIGITIMES Asia stories in the week of January 6 – January 10.

Most of Apple's high-end products are likely to be excluded from China's latest round of subsidies, as the country has set a price cap of CNY6,000 (approx. US$822) for eligible digital products. Under the new program, consumers will receive a 15% subsidy on the purchase of smartphones, tablets, and smart bracelets, provided the products fall within the price limit.