A saleswoman showcases a 4G-enabled smartphone by China Mobile. [File photo]

4. 4G-enabled smartphone around 1,000 yuan frontrunner

Mass production of low-end chips ensures a robust market growth of smartphones below 1,000 yuan. Therefore, with carriers promoting 4G network, 4G-enabled smartphones at this price range will be the leading player in the low-end market.

For mid-end market, phone manufacturers are expected to price around 2,000 yuan and turn to advertisement and promotion for differentiation.