2 Minutes
Apple is on track to retake the global smartphone shipments lead from Samsung, driven by strong iPhone 17 demand and an upgrade cycle among post‑pandemic buyers. Counterpoint Research's projections point to a tight but decisive shift in market share for 2025.
Why iPhone 17 momentum matters
According to Counterpoint Research, Apple is expected to ship about 243 million iPhones in 2025, capturing roughly 19.4% of the global smartphone market. Samsung, currently the top shipper, is forecast to move around 235 million units, or 18.7% market share. That margin, while not huge, would mark Apple’s return to the top after 14 years.
The iPhone 17 lineup has been a clear catalyst. Counterpoint notes a 9% rise in Q3 shipments versus the previous year’s iPhone 16 series, with early demand in the first four weeks up 12% in the US and 18% in China. Those spikes underline how flagship refreshes and regional momentum can quickly tilt yearly totals.
Beyond product cycles, timing is playing in Apple’s favor. Many consumers who purchased phones during the pandemic are now eligible for upgrades, and the combination of a successful new model plus pent-up replacement demand could keep Apple ahead. Analysts expect Apple to maintain this lead through 2029 if current trends persist.
So what does this mean for the market? Expect tighter competition among flagships, intensified promotions in key regions, and a renewed focus on services and accessories as manufacturers fight for share in a maturing smartphone market.
Source: gsmarena
Leave a Comment