Apple takes top spot in Chinese smartphone market - data firm

Apple's iPhone 6 and 6 Plus launched last September have proved to be popular in Asia despite being costlier than most handsets.

"The company is finally riding the large screen and LTE trends in China, which have been vital to its success," Canalys analysts said.

Samsung was shunted to the third place, the report said.

Apple captured a record 33 percent market share in South Korea in November, according to Hong Kong-based market research company Counterpoint.

Apple is slated to report its earnings after markets close on Tuesday.

(Reporting by Anya George Tharakan in Bengaluru; Editing by Joyjeet Das)