According to a recent report from industry analysts, Apple has once again established itself as a leader in the smartphone market, with its iPhone 16 emerging as the best-selling smartphone globally in 2025. For the fourth consecutive year, Apple and Samsung have dominated the list of top-selling smartphones, together accounting for 19% of worldwide sales.
Apple's stronghold on the market is evident, as the iPhone 16 has widened its lead over competitors. The iPhone 17 series also contributed to the company's success, achieving a remarkable 16% increase in sales compared to its predecessor during its first full quarter on the market. This surge was largely driven by high demand in key regions including the United States, China, and Western Europe. The base model of the iPhone 17 performed exceptionally well, offering enhancements such as a higher refresh rate display and increased memory, drawing closer to the more expensive Pro variants in sales.
Additionally, Apple's new budget-friendly model, the iPhone 16e, has bolstered sales figures, particularly in Japan and the United States, where it has seen consistent demand.
Samsung secured three spots in the top ten best-selling smartphones, with the Galaxy A16 5G leading as the most popular Android device last year. This model gained traction among consumers due to its balanced hardware and software capabilities. However, the early launch of the Galaxy A17 5G slightly impacted the sales of the A16.
The Galaxy S series, particularly the Galaxy S25 Ultra, continued to impress, showing significant growth in markets such as Japan and India. The device's advanced AI features and consistent performance improvements helped it narrow the sales gap with the more affordable Galaxy A series.
Looking ahead, analysts predict that 2026 may see significant impacts from memory shortages affecting entry-level and mid-range smartphones, primarily in emerging markets like the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. Despite this, there is an expectation for an increase in sales of flagship models, even as higher prices may extend the replacement cycles for older devices. However, promotional campaigns and sales of refurbished phones may help alleviate some of the pricing pressure.
The current market dynamics suggest that Apple and Samsung will continue to lead the smartphone sector, putting pressure on competitors to innovate and adapt in order to capture market share.
Informational material. 18+.
