In the first quarter of the year, Apple emerged as the leading global smartphone vendor, fueled by the launch of the iPhone 16e and heightened consumer demand in markets such as Japan and India, according to a report released by Counterpoint Research on Monday.
Apple captured 19 percent of the smartphone market share, despite experiencing stagnant or declining sales in key regions, including the United States, Europe, and China. Samsung followed closely behind with an 18 percent market share, as per the findings from Counterpoint.
The International Data Corporation (IDC), which monitors mobile device shipments, reported a 1.5 percent increase in global smartphone shipments in the same quarter. To navigate potential tariffs instituted by former U.S. President Donald Trump, Apple expedited efforts to build inventory.
The fluctuating tariffs and rising global trade tensions have contributed to significant market volatility over the past couple of weeks, leading to a bleaker economic outlook and fears of increased inflation.
To counter the tariffs, Apple organized charter flights to transport 600 tons of iPhones from India to the United States, which is equivalent to approximately 1.5 million devices.
However, the exemption of smartphones, computers, and various other electronics from extensive reciprocal duties imposed on China by Trump led to a rebound in global tech stock prices on Monday.
Ryan Reith, group vice president of worldwide device trackers at IDC, remarked, “The recent exemption from smartphone import tariffs provides temporary relief for U.S. companies, but the persistent reliance on the Chinese supply chain remains a concern amidst ongoing tariff disruptions.”
He added, “Currently, U.S. smartphone manufacturers should leverage this exemption to maximize production and shipments.”
Counterpoint anticipates that uncertainties related to tariffs will hinder growth in the smartphone market this year. Xiaomi maintained its position in third place in sales, with Vivo and OPPO following in fourth and fifth place, respectively.
© Thomson Reuters 2025
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