Apple Secures Dominance in Global Smartphone Market, Dethroning Samsung After 12 Years.
According to data from the International Data Corporation (IDC), Apple has claimed the largest share of the global smartphone market, displacing Samsung from the top position for the first time in over a decade. Last year, the American tech giant accounted for over 20% of all phones shipped. Samsung followed closely with a market share of 19.4%, while Chinese smartphone manufacturers Xiaomi, OPPO, and Transsion trailed behind. The IDC's report indicates a decline of more than 3% in smartphone sales compared to the previous year, totaling nearly 1.2 billion units—the lowest in a decade. Economic challenges and high interest rates led consumers to tighten their spending on smartphone upgrades during the pandemic. Analysts anticipate a market recovery in the coming year.
Apple Emerges as Top Performer Despite Challenges, Says IDC
The International Data Corporation (IDC) has declared Apple, with sales exceeding 234 million phones last year, as "the biggest winner" in the smartphone market. According to Nabila Popal of the IDC, Apple not only exhibited positive annual growth, but it also secured the annual number 1 position for the first time. This achievement is noteworthy, considering the increased regulatory hurdles and intensified competition from Huawei in China, Apple's largest market.
Despite facing challenges, including Huawei's advancements in chip manufacturing following restrictions on US technology, Apple maintained its leading position. Huawei had encountered restrictions due to national security concerns, prompting the company to develop its own chips.
Apple's success is attributed to various factors, including trade-in offers for old models and the popularity of interest-free financing plans. These strategies contribute to the sustained demand for premium devices, reinforcing Apple's dominance in the competitive smartphone landscape.
Samsung's Leadership in Memory Chips, Smartphones, and Televisions Challenged
Samsung, once the leading global producer of memory chips, smartphones, and televisions, faces a setback as Apple claims the top spot in the smartphone market. This marks a significant shift for the South Korean electronics giant, which recently issued a profit warning due to weaker global demand for consumer electronics.
Samsung is grappling with intensified competition from more affordable Android models, notably from Transsion and Xiaomi. These brands are gaining traction among price-conscious consumers and in emerging markets, posing a threat to Samsung's market share.
According to the IDC, the smartphone market is entering a pivotal phase, characterized by increased fragmentation among Android providers. Additionally, customers are showing a growing preference for foldable phones and advanced AI capabilities. This evolving landscape poses both challenges and opportunities for industry players.