Apple has taken the lead in world-wide smartphone sales in the first quarter of 2025 in a historic victory that beats Samsung for the first time in any first quarter. The boost came thanks to the great reception of the iPhone 16e and strong demand across the emerging economies, despite looming economic uncertainties and trade tensions facing the industry.
Apple surpassed Samsung to take the top position as the world's largest smartphone vendor in Q1 2025 with a 19% global market share. The success is driven by the excellent performance of the newly released iPhone 16e and strong growth in major markets like Japan and India. Apple overcame the struggles in mature markets and the continuing economic headwinds by leveraging its strategic initiatives and innovation in products.
Market Leadership and Expansion
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Apple captured 19% of the worldwide smartphone market during Q1 2025, just ahead of Samsung's 18% share.
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This is Apple's first-ever first-quarter lead, a time normally dominated by Samsung.
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The worldwide smartphone market expanded 3% year-over-year, led largely by emerging markets and Chinese government subsidies.
Regional Performance
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Apple's sales were flat or down in mature markets such as the US, Europe, and China, where local brands competed and scarcity of AI features hurt demand.
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Double-digit growth was achieved in Japan, India, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, which countered lower performance in developed markets.
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The iPhone 16e release was a major catalyst, particularly in non-traditional Apple strongholds.
Industry Dynamics and Economic Headwinds
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Apple’s rise comes amid economic uncertainty, with analysts warning of a possible market contraction later in 2025 due to tariffs and global trade tensions.
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The company took proactive measures, such as front-loading shipments and chartering cargo flights to transport iPhones from India to the US, aiming to sidestep potential tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump.
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In spite of the Q1 growth, Counterpoint Research and other analysts forecast the overall smartphone market to drop in 2025 as economic threats increase.
Competitor Highlights
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Samsung came in second at 18% market share, recovering from the delayed release of its flagship Galaxy S25 series.
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Xiaomi, vivo, and OPPO continued to keep strong pace, completing the top five global smartphone makers.
Financial Impact
Apple's shares appreciated by around 3.5% after it announced its leadership in the market.
Sources: Cyprus Mail, Counterpoint Research, Reuters, Economic Times, Times of India, Hindustan Times
