After 14 years, Apple is poised to reclaim its position as the global leader in smartphone shipments. According to Counterpoint Research, Apple is projected to ship over 243 million iPhones in 2025, capturing approximately 19.4% of the global smartphone market. Samsung, currently the market leader, is expected to ship 235 million units, accounting for an 18.7% market share.
The success of the iPhone 17 series is a key driver for Apple’s growth. Shipments in the third quarter increased by 9% compared to last year’s iPhone 16 series. Additionally, demand in the United States for the 17 series was 12% higher during the first four weeks after launch. In China, demand rose by 18% over the same period.
Apple also benefits from a wave of consumers entering their upgrade cycle after buying smartphones during the COVID-19 pandemic. This momentum is expected to extend over the coming years, with Apple projected to maintain its lead in global smartphone shipments through 2029, increasing the gap with Samsung.
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