MediaTek is preparing to launch its next flagship chipset, the Dimensity 9500, as it continues to strengthen its position in the premium smartphone processor market. Following the success of the Dimensity 9400 and Dimensity 9400+, the company is on track to expand its market presence further in 2025.
A report from Counterpoint Research indicates that MediaTek’s shipments of flagship chipsets rose significantly in 2024, reaching 18 million units — a 60 percent increase compared to the previous year. Looking ahead, shipments are projected to rise by another 33 percent in 2025, hitting 24 million units. Revenue from MediaTek’s premium chipset segment also doubled in 2024, reaching $2 billion. Although no specific revenue forecast has been shared for this year, analysts suggest that the Dimensity 9500 will play a critical role in sustaining that momentum.
China Leads MediaTek’s Growth
The report highlights that Chinese smartphone brands remain the key drivers behind MediaTek’s flagship SoC shipments. Vivo is expected to account for the largest portion of Dimensity 9500 orders, followed by OPPO and Xiaomi’s sub-brand Redmi. This reliance on the Chinese market reflects a broader trend in the premium smartphone space, where local brands are pushing aggressively to increase unit sales.
“China is by far the most important market for the Dimensity 9000 series. The Dimensity 9400’s sales have helped MediaTek capture approximately one-third of the premium SoC market in China. The company is also experiencing growth in India and Southeast Asia. The key reasons for Dimensity’s success include competitive pricing, better battery life and thermals compared to the competition, no support for millimeter wave needed in targeted markets, and strong AI and gaming capabilities.”
Competition With Qualcomm
With Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 expected to be priced higher than its rivals, MediaTek is in a favorable position to offer more cost-effective solutions to smartphone makers. The Dimensity 9500 provides Chinese OEMs with the ability to launch competitively priced flagship devices while maintaining healthy margins.
However, MediaTek still faces significant challenges. Huawei continues to strengthen its presence in the domestic market, making competition tougher. Furthermore, MediaTek’s reliance on China as its primary market poses risks — any slowdown in demand could directly impact its overall revenue. Currently, there is no indication that the company is pursuing an aggressive diversification strategy to balance shipments across other regions.
The launch of the Dimensity 9500 next month is expected to further cement MediaTek’s foothold in the flagship chipset market. With strong partnerships in China and growing traction in India and Southeast Asia, the company is positioned to continue its upward trajectory. The focus will now be on whether MediaTek can expand beyond its reliance on the Chinese market to sustain long-term growth.
Source: Counterpoint Research, Wccftech
