In Q3 2024, Apple’s iPhone 15 emerged as the best-selling smartphone globally, followed closely by the iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro, according to Counterpoint Research’s Global Handset Model Sales Tracker. Apple and Samsung continued their longstanding rivalry in the premium market, each holding significant spots in the top 10 best-selling smartphones list. Samsung led with five entries, while Apple claimed four, and Xiaomi’s Redmi 13C made one.
Consumer interest in high-end devices is growing, with half of Apple’s total Q3 iPhone sales coming from the Pro variants for the first time in a third quarter. Attractive financing options and trade-in deals have made the iPhone 15 lineup accessible to a broader demographic, especially in emerging markets. This trend toward premium smartphones is driving up Apple’s sales value and closing the market share gap between the iPhone’s base and Pro models. Meanwhile, Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series also achieved a strong showing, bolstered by GenAI marketing that highlights advanced features in the high-end Galaxy S lineup. Notably, Samsung’s Galaxy A series also captured four spots on the top-10 list, thanks to its affordability, software support, and broad global presence.
Xiaomi maintained a presence with the budget-friendly Redmi 13C, popular in emerging markets for its competitive specs and affordability. With Apple and Samsung investing heavily in GenAI and AI features, both companies are solidifying their positions in the premium segment. As the competition for high-end smartphones heats up, Apple and Samsung are expected to continue leading global sales through 2024.
