Apple’s iPhone 15 emerged as the best-selling smartphone worldwide in Q3 2024, with the iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro following closely behind, according to Counterpoint Research’s Global Handset Model Sales Tracker. Samsung dominated the global top-10 best-selling smartphone list with five models, while Apple secured four spots, and Xiaomi claimed one. This ranking distribution mirrors trends from 2023, showing consistent consumer preferences. While Apple’s share of the top-10 list slightly declined, Samsung’s growing presence has kept the combined market share of the top 10 smartphones around 19%.
Shift Toward High-End Smartphones Narrowing Market Share Gap
Consumer demand for high-end smartphones is gradually closing the market share gap between Apple’s base and Pro iPhone models. Notably, for the first time in Q3, half of all iPhone sales were driven by the Pro variants. This shift is enabling Apple to drive higher-value device sales, particularly in emerging markets. Attractive financing options and trade-in programs have made the latest iPhones more accessible across various income levels, further boosting Apple’s premium sales.
Samsung’s Galaxy S24 Series and A Series Continue Strong Performance
Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series maintained its position in the top 10 for the third consecutive quarter. This marks the first time since 2018 that a Galaxy S series variant has entered the top 10 in Q3. The sales success of the Galaxy S24 has largely been attributed to strong marketing focused on its GenAI capabilities. Additionally, the Galaxy A series, with its four spots in the top 10, benefited from Samsung’s widespread global presence and competitive pricing, targeting entry- and mid-level segments with longer software support. However, high-end Galaxy A models have been edged out by the Galaxy S series and mid-tier A series phones.
Xiaomi’s Redmi 13C Maintains Stronghold in Emerging Markets
Xiaomi’s Redmi 13C, a successor to last year’s Redmi 12C, secured its place in the top-10 list for the second consecutive quarter. The device’s success is driven by its affordability and strong presence in emerging markets, where it offers competitive specifications in its price range.
Apple and Samsung Strengthen Premium Positioning with AI Integration
Both Apple and Samsung continue to strengthen their premium market positioning with advanced AI technologies. Apple’s Intelligence and Samsung’s Galaxy AI are becoming key differentiators in the high-end segment, helping both brands maintain their dominance in the smartphone rankings. The focus on GenAI features is expected to further elevate their competitive edge in the premium market.
About Counterpoint Technology Market Research
Counterpoint Technology Market Research is a global firm specializing in the TMT (technology, media, and telecom) sectors. The company provides in-depth market analysis, customized research, and detailed reports to major technology and financial firms. Its analysts are industry veterans with extensive expertise in the high-tech market.
