Apple Captures Global Smartphone Crown in 2025, Shipments Climb
Overview
Apple seized the top spot in the global smartphone market in 2025 with a 20% share, according to Counterpoint Research. Overall shipments grew 2% year-on-year, driven by demand in emerging markets and strong iPhone 17 sales. Samsung followed at 19%. However, a challenging 2026 looms with expected chip shortages.
Apple Leads Smartphone Market
Apple Inc. topped the global smartphone market in 2025, securing a 20% market share. This marks a significant achievement for the tech giant, driven by robust demand in emerging economies and the strong performance of its iPhone 17 series. Global smartphone shipments saw a modest 2% year-on-year increase for the year.
Key Players and Market Dynamics
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. secured the second position with a 19% market share, reporting modest shipment growth. Xiaomi Corp. followed in third place, capturing 13% of the market, buoyed by consistent demand in key developing regions. Analysts noted that initial shipment pull-forwards due to anticipated tariffs had minimal impact on second-half volumes.
Outlook for 2026
Despite the growth in 2025, the global smartphone market faces headwinds heading into 2026. Counterpoint Research anticipates a slowdown, citing potential chip shortages and rising component costs. Chip manufacturers are increasingly prioritizing allocation to AI data centers, which could impact handset production.
