The global market is finally bouncing back after two consecutive years of decline, as noted by Counterpoint Research. According to the firm, 2024 saw smartphone makers achieve a 4% year-on-year growth. There’s also some good news for Samsung fans. Counterpoint points out that Samsung has clinched the top spot in global smartphone market share, with Apple and Xiaomi hot on its heels.
Samsung claims top position in global smartphone market share in 2024
Throughout 2024, Samsung saw a 1% year-on-year growth in unit sales, while Apple experienced a 2% dip. Xiaomi, on the other hand, surged ahead with a 12% increase in unit sales. In terms of market share, Samsung held 19%, followed by Apple at 18% and Xiaomi at 14%.
Global smartphone shipments grew by 4% in 2024, signaling a light at the end of the tunnel for the recovering market, according to Counterpoint Research. Research Director Tarun Pathak highlighted that the smartphone sector turned a corner in late 2023, with growth continuing for five consecutive quarters. Nearly all regions saw an uptick, with Europe, China, and Latin America leading the charge. Pathak attributed the rebound to softened macroeconomic pressures, as the industry regained its footing and steadied the ship.
Samsung retained the crown with a 19% market share, driven by ‘strong demand’ for its Galaxy S24 and A-series smartphones, according to Counterpoint Research. Touted as Samsung’s first AI-powered devices, the Galaxy S24 series outshone older models and struck a chord with consumers, particularly in Western Europe and the USA.
Looking ahead, Samsung has a stellar lineup in store for 2025. In January, the company will unveil the Galaxy S25 series at its Galaxy Unpacked event. The highly anticipated Galaxy S25 Slim is expected to launch in May 2025. On top of that, Samsung plans to roll out several budget-friendly smartphones throughout the year. We’ll see how this lineup stacks up against the growing competition, especially from Chinese phone makers. Counterpoint Research also predicts that 2025 will be the first time Indian smartphone sales cross the $50 billion mark, which could further benefit Samsung.
