Apple leads the market, but Samsung holds more spots on the list of top 10 best-selling smartphones as its share increases.
In the third quarter of 2024, the iPhone 15 was the world’s best-selling smartphone, according to data compiled by Counterpoint Research. The iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro followed closely behind.
Samsung dominated the top 10 list of best-selling smartphones with five models, while Apple secured four spots, and Xiaomi had one. This pattern mirrors that of 2023, showing stable consumer preferences.
The iPhone 14 ranked as the eighth best-seller. While Apple’s share of the top 10 list declined slightly, Samsung’s market share grew. Together, the top 10 best-selling smartphones made up about 19% of the market.
Best-Selling Smartphones: Samsung’s Performance
Samsung’s best performer was the Galaxy A15 4G, which ranked fourth on the list of best-selling smartphones. Other Samsung models, like the Galaxy A15 5G, Galaxy A35 5G, and Galaxy A05, took the fifth, sixth, and seventh spots.
Counterpoint Research explained that Samsung’s Galaxy A series captured four spots due to its strong presence in many regions and focus on affordable, mid-range models. The competitive pricing and long software support make these devices attractive to a wide customer base.
The Galaxy S24, the base model, was in the tenth position. This marked the third consecutive quarter it remained in the top 10. Strong marketing, especially around its AI capabilities, helped drive sales.
Consumer Trends and High-End Smartphones
There’s a growing preference for high-end smartphones. This trend is slowly reducing the market share gap between the base and Pro versions of the iPhone.
For the first time in a third quarter, half of all iPhone sales came from the Pro variants. This shift allows Apple to focus on higher-value sales.
In emerging markets, more consumers are opting for the latest iPhones, boosted by financing options and trade-in deals. This helps Apple reach a broader audience.
Global Smartphone Shipments and Revenue Growth
Global smartphone shipments grew 2% year-on-year in Q3 2024, as macroeconomic conditions improved and consumer demand rose. Shipments reached approximately 307 million units, according to Counterpoint Research.
Industry revenue saw a 10% annual increase, hitting record levels for a September quarter. Apple led the way with a 43% share of global smartphone revenue. Samsung followed with 16%, and Chinese brands Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo rounded out the top five.
Xiaomi’s Success
Xiaomi’s Redmi 13C, replacing the previous Redmi 12C, remained in the top 10 best-sellers list for the second quarter in a row. Its success is largely due to its affordability and strong presence in emerging markets.
Apple and Samsung Strengthen Their Premium Position
Both Apple and Samsung continue to focus on premium smartphones. Apple’s use of Apple Intelligence and Samsung’s Galaxy AI is helping them maintain dominance in the market. These AI features are expected to be a key differentiator in the premium segment.
The Top 10 Best-Selling Smartphones in Q3 2024:
- iPhone 15 — (Buy it Here)
- iPhone 15 Pro Max — (Buy it Here)
- iPhone 15 Pro — (Buy it Here)
- Galaxy A15 4G — (Buy it Here)
- Galaxy A15 5G — (Buy it Here)
- Galaxy A35 5G — (Buy it Here)
- Galaxy A05 — (Buy it Here)
- iPhone 14 — (Buy it Here)
- Redmi 13C 4G — (Buy it Here)
- Galaxy S24 — (Buy it Here)
The top 10 best-selling smartphones in Q3 2024 reflect strong performances from Apple and Samsung. While Apple continues to lead with its iPhone 15, Samsung’s Galaxy A series shows the brand’s growing influence in the market. As high-end smartphones gain popularity, both Apple and Samsung are well-positioned to maintain their dominance, with innovative AI features supporting their premium offerings.
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