The global smartphone landscape experienced robust growth in 2024, with total shipments increasing for the sixth consecutive quarter, according to the latest report from the International Data Corporation (IDC). In the fourth quarter alone, 331.7 million smartphones were shipped, reflecting a 2.4% rise compared to Q4 2023.
Apple and Samsung maintained their positions as the top players in the market; however, both companies reported a decline in their shipment numbers relative to the previous year’s final quarter. Xiaomi continued to solidify its third-place position and is narrowing the gap with Samsung.
A notable development occurred with Transsion and vivo, which ended up tied for the fourth spot due to closely matched shipment figures. vivo recorded a remarkable 12.7% rise in shipments—the highest growth rate among the leading brands—while Transsion experienced a slight decline.
| Top 5 Companies, Worldwide Smartphone Shipments, Market Share, and Year-Over-Year Growth, Q4 2024 | |||||
| Company | 4Q24 Shipments | 4Q24 Market Share | 4Q23 Shipments | 4Q23 Market Share | 4Q24/4Q23 Growth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Apple | 76.9 | 23.20% | 80.2 | 24.70% | -4.10% |
| 2. Samsung | 51.7 | 15.60% | 53.1 | 16.40% | -2.70% |
| 3. Xiaomi | 42.7 | 12.90% | 40.7 | 12.60% | 4.80% |
| 4. Transsion* | 27.2 | 8.20% | 28.2 | 8.70% | -3.40% |
| 4. vivo* | 27.1 | 8.20% | 24 | 7.40% | 12.70% |
| Others | 106.1 | 32.00% | 97.7 | 30.20% | 8.60% |
| Total | 331.7 | 100.00% | 324 | 100.00% | 2.40% |
| Source: IDC Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker, January 13, 2025 |
For the calendar year 2024, the overall scenario remained consistent, with Apple and Samsung leading despite slightly diminished performances compared to 2023. Xiaomi had a commendable year, securing its position in the market.
Transsion had a solid overall performance throughout 2024, exhibiting growth comparable to Xiaomi’s, but still faces challenges in terms of total shipments. Interestingly, while IDC recorded Transsion's growth in Q4, Oppo was noted as tied for fourth place for the entire year instead of vivo.
| Top 5 Companies, Worldwide Smartphone Shipments, Market Share, and Year-Over-Year Growth, CY 2024 | |||||
| Company | 2024 Shipments | 2024 Market Share | 2023 Shipments | 2023 Market Share | 2024/2023 Growth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Apple | 232.1 | 18.70% | 234.3 | 20.10% | -0.90% |
| 2. Samsung | 223.4 | 18.00% | 226.7 | 19.50% | -1.40% |
| 3. Xiaomi | 168.5 | 13.60% | 146 | 12.50% | 15.40% |
| 4. Transsion* | 106.9 | 8.60% | 94.9 | 8.20% | 12.70% |
| 4. OPPO* | 104.8 | 8.50% | 103.4 | 8.90% | 1.40% |
| Others | 402.9 | 32.50% | 358.9 | 30.80% | 12.30% |
| Total | 1238.8 | 100.00% | 1164.1 | 100.00% | 6.40% |
| Source: IDC Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker, January 13, 2025 |
Anthony Scarsella, the research director for Client Devices at IDC, expressed concerns regarding the future of foldable smartphones: "Vendors have started shifting their R&D focus away from foldables due to stagnant consumer interest. New AI advancements are taking precedence, especially among top-tier devices fueled by GenAI.”
Looking ahead to 2025, Nabila Popal, senior research director for Worldwide Client Devices at IDC, remains cautiously optimistic: “While there is potential for continued growth, the looming threat of new tariffs from the upcoming US administration adds a layer of uncertainty for the industry, prompting some companies to explore measures to mitigate potential risks. Nevertheless, the current impact has been minimal thus far.”
