Apple has officially become the world’s top smartphone maker, ending Samsung’s 12-year run at the top.
New data shows Apple grabbed the largest slice of the global smartphone market last year, outpacing all rivals in a year when overall sales were down.
According to the International Data Corporation (IDC), Apple claimed more than 20 percent of total phone shipments in 2023, selling over 234 million iPhones. Samsung followed with 19.4 percent, while Chinese brands like Xiaomi, OPPO, and Transsion rounded out the top five.
Despite a tough year for smartphone makers overall, Apple managed to grow its sales. The industry sold just under 1.2 billion phones, the lowest figure in ten years. Many buyers held off upgrading due to high interest rates and economic uncertainty. The decline was more than 3 percent compared to the year before.
Apple’s success comes from several smart moves. Trade-in deals for old phones and interest-free payment plans helped keep demand strong for its premium devices. Even in China, where it faced new competition from Huawei and growing regulatory pressure, Apple still performed well.
Meanwhile, Samsung had a rough year. The company warned of lower profits due to weak demand for consumer tech. As a result, it lost its long-held lead in the smartphone race. It also faced growing pressure from more affordable Android rivals like Xiaomi and Transsion, which are gaining popularity in emerging markets.
Huawei also made a surprise return in the Chinese market, working around US chip bans by building more of its own technology. This has reshaped the competitive landscape and made it harder for global brands to maintain dominance.
The smartphone industry is also shifting in other ways. Foldable phones are getting more attention, and companies are investing in adding artificial intelligence features. These trends are expected to play a bigger role in what buyers want next.
Industry experts believe the market may start to bounce back this year as economic conditions improve. But with new players gaining ground and consumer tastes changing fast, it’s clear the phone business is entering a new era—and Apple is leading the way.