Apple Becomes Top Smartphone Maker After 14-Year Rivalry

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Apple's Return to the Top of the Smartphone Market

Apple is set to reclaim its position as the world’s largest smartphone manufacturer for the first time in over a decade, surpassing Samsung Electronics. According to a report from Counterpoint Research cited by Bloomberg, Apple is expected to achieve a 19.4% market share in terms of sales volume this year. This marks a significant shift, as it will be the first time since 2011 that Apple has led the global smartphone market in terms of shipments.

The growth in iPhone shipments this year is attributed to a 10% increase, outpacing Samsung’s 4.6% growth in Galaxy smartphone shipments. While Apple has long dominated the revenue charts among smartphone manufacturers, Samsung has traditionally held the lead in shipment volume. This discrepancy is due to Apple’s focus on high-end devices with premium pricing, while Samsung offers a broader range of products across different price segments.

Factors Behind Apple’s Success

Apple’s recent surge in shipment volume can be attributed to the strong reception of the iPhone 17 series, which was launched in September. The new models have performed well not only in the U.S. domestic market but also in emerging markets such as China. Additionally, the easing of U.S.-China trade tensions and a weaker dollar have made iPhones more competitive in terms of pricing.

Counterpoint analyst Yang Wang highlighted that the upward revision in iPhone shipment forecasts is partly due to the product replacement cycle. Many consumers who purchased smartphones during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic are now entering the phase of upgrading their devices.

Future Plans and Market Outlook

Counterpoint Research predicts that Apple will maintain its leadership in the smartphone market until 2029. To sustain this growth, the company plans to introduce foldable, folding iPhones and a budget-friendly model called the iPhone 17e. There are also expectations that starting next year, Apple will split its annual new product launches into two cycles—first and second half of the year—to further boost sales volume.

Samsung Faces New Challenges

While Apple is gaining ground, Samsung is encountering increased competition from Chinese smartphone manufacturers. These companies, once known for dominating the budget segment with low prices, are now making inroads into the premium market. Additionally, the foldable phone market, which Samsung pioneered, is now being challenged by Chinese firms.

Chinese smartphone manufacturers currently hold the first and second positions in the global foldable phone market. The domestic foldable phone market in China has experienced rapid growth, accounting for 57% of the global market in the first half of this year. This shift highlights the evolving dynamics in the global smartphone industry, where traditional leaders like Samsung must adapt to new competitors and changing consumer preferences.

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