Apple Tops Global Smartphone Market Share for First Time

Apple achieved a historic milestone in the first quarter of 2025 by becoming the global leader in smartphone sales for the first time, capturing a 19% market share and surpassing long-time rival Samsung, whose sales dipped due to the delayed launch of the Galaxy S25 series. This success was driven in part by strong launches like the entry-level iPhone 16e and substantial growth in emerging markets such as India and Japan, despite flat or declining sales in the US, Europe, and China. In India, Apple shipped a record 3 million iPhones—its highest-ever for a first quarter—supported by affordability programs and the growing popularity of the new iPhone 16 series. Some of Apple’s shipment growth also stemmed from stockpiling ahead of potential US tariffs, which may have inflated reported numbers beyond underlying consumer demand. Overall, Apple’s double-digit growth in non-core markets and strategic production adjustments helped the company set new records and overtake Samsung’s previously dominant Q1 position. Industry analysts speculate that this shift may encourage further innovation and competition among leading smartphone brands.