Samsung Overtakes Apple as Top Phonemaker: Q1 2024 Market Report

In a significant shift in the smartphone market landscape, Apple has relinquished its position as the top phonemaker to Samsung, as iPhone shipments experienced a notable decline. This dip has been attributed to intensifying competition from Android smartphone manufacturers, particularly those aiming to secure the top spot.

According to data from research firm IDC, Apple experienced a decline of approximately 10% in smartphone shipments during the first quarter of 2024. This decrease was attributed to heightened competition from Android smartphone manufacturers vying for dominance in the market. Despite this setback for Apple, global smartphone shipments saw a 7.8% increase, totaling 289.4 million units from January to March. Samsung emerged as the top phonemaker during this period, capturing 20.8% market share, leaving Apple in 2nd place with 17.3% market share. Xiaomi, a leading smartphone manufacturer in China, secured the third spot with a market share of 14.1%.

During the initial three weeks of availability, global sales of Galaxy S24 smartphones increased by 8% compared to the previous year's Galaxy S23 series, as reported by the data provider Counterpoint. This highlights Samsung's strong performance in the market. Conversely, Apple faced a decline in iPhone shipments during the first quarter, shipping 50.1 million units compared to 55.4 million units in the same period the previous year, according to IDC data. However, it’s worthy to note that the global smartphone market witnessed a 7.8% increase in shipments, reaching a total of 289.4 million units from January to March.

As the smartphone market continues to evolve, competition between Apple and Samsung is likely to intensify further. Both companies are expected to innovate and adapt to changing consumer preferences, ensuring that the battle for the top spot remains fiercely contested in the years to come.