Apple surpasses Samsung to become leader of global smartphone market in 2023

Apple has emerged as the world leader in the smartphone industry for the first time, securing a remarkable 20.1 per cent market share, according to a recent report by the International Data Corporation (IDC). The surge has propelled Apple ahead of long-standing leader Samsung, which now holds the second spot with a 19.5 per cent market share.

Despite an overall 3.2 per cent decline in global smartphone shipments to 1.17 billion units in 2023, Apple stands out as the sole player in the top three to exhibit positive annual growth, securing the coveted number one spot.

"Not only is Apple the only player in the Top 3 to show positive growth annually, but also bags the number 1 spot annually for the first time ever," said Nabila Popal, said research director with IDC's Worldwide Tracker team.


Apple achieved this fest despite facing increased regulatory challenges and renewed competition from Huawei in China, its largest market.

"Apple's ongoing success and resilience is in large part due to the increasing trend of premium devices, which now represent over 20 per cent of the market, fueled by aggressive trade-in offers and interest-free financing plans," IANS quoted Popal as saying.

The overall shift in ranking at the top of the market further highlights the intensity of competition within the smartphone market.

"Apple certainly played a part in Samsung's drop in rank, but the overall Android space is diversifying within itself," said Ryan Reith, group vice president with IDC's IDC's Worldwide Mobility and Consumer Device Trackers. Chinese brand Xiaomi was third with 12.5 per cent share globally, said the report.

(With inputs from IANS)