Apple set to overtake Samsung in 2025 as global smartphone leader

Apple may sell more phones than Samsung in 2025. This could make Apple the world’s number one phone company after more than 10 years. The report also says global phone sales may grow by 3.3% in 2025, mainly because Apple will help push the increase.

Apple’s iPhone shipments may rise 10% in 2025, helped by strong demand for the iPhone 17 series in big markets, as reported by Fox Business. Counterpoint also projects that Apple will reach a 19.4% global share in 2025, making it the top smartphone maker for the first time since 2011.

Apple iPhone growth in 2025

Samsung’s shipments are expected to grow 4.6% year over year, but its global share may fall to 18.7%, pushing it to second place after more than a decade at No. 1. Senior analyst Yang Wang said, "Beyond the highly positive market reception for the iPhone 17 series, the key driver behind the upgraded shipment outlook lies in the replacement cycle reaching its inflection point."


He also said many people who bought phones during Covid are now ready to upgrade. Wang added that 358 million second-hand iPhones were sold from 2023 to Q2 2025, and these users may also buy new iPhones soon. The Fox Business report says this strong base of buyers will help Apple keep its No. 1 position through 2029.

Samsung and China smartphone market update

The study says Samsung will push its A series in emerging markets using better specs and competitive prices to stay strong. In richer countries, Samsung will shift more toward premium phones to protect its market share.

Chinese smartphone brands are expected to grow by selling more phones overseas and launching higher-priced premium models to make more profit, as per the report by Fox Business. Counterpoint says this strategy will help Chinese brands improve revenue, while their shipment rankings will stay stable through 2029.

FAQs

Q1. Why is Apple expected to become No. 1 in smartphone sales in 2025?

Apple may take the top spot because iPhone 17 demand is strong and many users are upgrading their old or second-hand iPhones.

Q2. Why is Samsung losing its No. 1 position in 2025?

Samsung’s share is expected to drop slightly as Apple’s shipments grow faster and reach a higher global market share.