Despite the ongoing challenges related to tariffs and sales issues in China, there were moments when Apple and the iPhone seemed “destined for failure.” However, recent data from Counterpoint indicates that the iPhone has achieved a significant sales milestone for the first time.
iPhone tops global smartphone sales in Q1 for the first time ever
Counterpoint recently released its global smartphone sales analysis for Q1 2025, showing a slight increase in overall sales during the initial three months of the year.
The standout performer was clearly the iPhone.
For the first time in a Q1, Apple claimed the largest market share among all smartphone manufacturers.
The iPhone achieved a remarkable 19% of global smartphone sales, driven notably by the successful introduction of the iPhone 16e.
Here’s a summary of the two leading smartphone brands worldwide:
- Apple: 19% share, an increase of 4%
- Samsung: 18% share, a decrease of 5%
As illustrated, Apple’s success is significantly attributed to Samsung’s decline in performance compared to the previous year. While the iPhone sales rose by 4% in this quarter, Samsung—previously the leader in Q1—experienced a 5% drop in sales.
Despite having a slow start due to the delayed release of the S25 series, Samsung’s sales picked up after the launch of the flagship S25 and new A-series models, resulting in double-digit growth in March.
We currently lack specific sales figures for the iPhone 16e, making it difficult to determine its precise impact on Apple’s success.
Nevertheless, it is truly impressive that, following numerous past successes, Apple continues to achieve new milestones with its iPhone lineup like this one.
What are your thoughts on Apple’s iPhone success in the last quarter? Share your opinions in the comments below.
