After 14 years, Apple is poised to reclaim the top spot in global smartphone shipments from Samsung. According to Counterpoint Research, Apple is expected to ship over 243 million iPhones in 2025, capturing an estimated 19.4% share of the global smartphone market. Meanwhile, Samsung, the current leader, is projected to ship 235 million units, holding an 18.7% market share.
The success of the iPhone 17 series has been a key factor in Apple's growth. In Q3, shipments increased by 9% compared to the previous year’s iPhone 16 series. Additionally, demand for the iPhone 17 in the first four weeks following its US launch was 12% higher than last year, with China experiencing an 18% increase in the same period.
Apple is also benefiting from a favorable upgrade cycle, as consumers who purchased smartphones during the COVID-19 pandemic now seek new devices. Analysts predict that the gap between Apple and Samsung will continue to widen, with Apple expected to maintain its leadership in global smartphone shipments through 2029.
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