LG Electronics’ modular handset ― the G5 ― has reached an impasse in the Chinese market, as its “vague” positioning strategy adds to an already gloomy picture for the firm’s mobile business here, according to local industry insiders.
The Korea’s No. 2 electronics giant launched the new smartphone in Asia’s largest market, last month. Lee Hye-woong, the firm’s China business chief, expressed confidence that the device would be a “mega-hit,” playing a crucial role to end years-long underperformance of its mobile unit.
But experts and market insiders here remain skeptical over its potential rebound unless the firm shifts its positioning strategies and diversifies its products lineups, rather than focusing on a few premium devices including the G5.
LG Electronics was ranked 16th in the Chinese smartphone market share during the fourth quarter of last year, according to U.S.-based market researcher IHS. Xiaomi was the first with 16.7 percent, followed by Huawei with a slim margin during the same period.
Samsung came in sixth with 9.4 percent of share, with LG holding only 0.02 percent.
(Source: Korea Times )