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Global Smartphone Shipments Rise 2.3% YoY in Q4 2025 Despite Memory Shortages, Boosting Apple LED Market (IDC)

idc q4 2025 Smartphone MarkeT

Global smartphone shipments recorded modest but meaningful growth in the fourth quarter of 2025, rising 2.3 percent year-over-year despite ongoing supply-side pressures, according to International Data Corporation (IDC). The market showed resilience in the face of a persistent memory chip shortage, logistical constraints, and cautious consumer spending in several regions. For the full year 2025, worldwide smartphone shipments reached 1.26 billion units, signaling a gradual recovery after periods of stagnation.

Premium devices played a major role in driving this growth, as consumers continued to prioritize high-end features and longer replacement cycles. Foldable smartphones gained wider acceptance, contributing to higher average selling prices and renewed interest in flagship models. Additionally, accelerated purchasing activity ahead of expected price increases helped lift shipments toward the end of the year, particularly in developed markets.

Apple and Samsung emerged as the strongest performers during the quarter, recording the highest growth rates among the top five smartphone brands. Apple led the global market for the third consecutive year, shipping 81.3 million units in Q4 2025 and capturing a 24.2 percent market share. The strong performance was fueled by demand for the iPhone 17 series and solid sales momentum in China and other key regions.

Samsung followed closely, shipping 61.2 million units and securing an 18.2 percent share of the global market, supported by a broad portfolio spanning premium and mid-range devices. Chinese manufacturers Xiaomi, Vivo, and Oppo rounded out the top five, maintaining competitive positions through aggressive pricing and strong distribution networks, particularly in emerging markets.

Apple Leads Global Smartphone Shipments in Q4 2024, According to Canalys Report

Global smartphone shipments saw a 3 percent year-on-year increase for the October-December (Q4) period in 2024, marking the fifth consecutive quarter of growth. According to Canalys, the growth was driven by strong demand for the newly launched iPhone 16 series, helping Apple secure the top spot in the global smartphone market with a 23 percent market share. Samsung followed closely in second place, while Chinese brands Xiaomi, Transsion Group, and Vivo rounded out the top five. Notably, Xiaomi stood out as the only brand among the top three to experience year-on-year growth.

The Canalys report revealed that total smartphone shipments reached 330 million units in Q4 2024, contributing to a global shipment total of 1.22 billion units for the entire year. This represents a 7 percent increase compared to the previous year, indicating a recovery in the global smartphone market. While the overall growth is encouraging, it is also indicative of a competitive landscape where brands are vying for dominance in an ever-changing market.

Apple’s performance in Q4 2024 solidified its position as the leader in smartphone shipments, with the iPhone 16 series continuing to capture consumer interest, particularly in emerging markets like India and Southeast Asia. Despite a slight dip from its 24 percent market share in Q3 2023, Apple’s strong sales performance in these regions allowed it to maintain its edge over Samsung for the second consecutive year.

Samsung’s position in second place was challenged by the increasing strength of Chinese brands, with Xiaomi and Transsion Group showing significant activity in global markets. However, Xiaomi was the only one of the top three brands to report year-on-year growth in Q4 2024, highlighting its continued success in regions like Europe and India. As the smartphone industry continues to grow, the competition between these major players remains fierce, with each brand seeking to expand its footprint in key markets around the world.

Samsung Leads Global Smartphone Market with 4% YoY Growth in 2024: Counterpoint Research

Global Smartphone Shipments Show Resurgence in 2024
Global smartphone shipments recorded a 4% year-over-year increase in 2024, marking a significant turnaround after two years of annual declines, according to a report by Counterpoint Research. This growth reflects improving consumer sentiment, driven by macroeconomic stabilization. Samsung retained its position as the global leader in market share, followed by Apple and Xiaomi, solidifying their dominance in the industry. The rise in shipments is a promising sign for the sector, which had seen its lowest sales figures in a decade during 2023.

Recovery and Market Dynamics
Counterpoint Research’s preliminary findings from its Market Pulse report highlight that the smartphone market began its recovery in late 2023, showing consistent growth over five consecutive quarters. Research Director Tarun Pathak pointed out that easing macroeconomic pressures were a significant factor in this rebound. The improved economic environment encouraged consumers to upgrade their devices, contributing to a more stable and optimistic market outlook.

Regional Growth Trends
The resurgence was fueled by growth across multiple regions, with Europe, China, and Latin America leading the way. These markets showed robust demand for both flagship and mid-range devices, reflecting varied consumer preferences. Europe benefited from strong promotional activities, while China’s recovery was spurred by local economic measures. Latin America’s growth was driven by rising smartphone penetration and demand for affordable models. These regional dynamics played a crucial role in the global market’s recovery.

Outlook for the Smartphone Industry
The 4% YoY growth in 2024 signals a potential return to pre-pandemic market conditions for the global smartphone industry. While challenges such as supply chain constraints and inflation persist, the recovery trend suggests a more resilient consumer base. Industry leaders like Samsung, Apple, and Xiaomi are expected to maintain their positions, leveraging innovation and strategic pricing to cater to evolving market demands. As economic conditions continue to stabilize, the smartphone sector is poised for sustained growth in the coming years.