In a significant shift in the global smartphone industry, Apple has ceded its leadership position to Samsung at the beginning of 2024, following a 10% decrease in iPhone sales. Samsung has reclaimed its status as the largest smartphone producer by volume, as reported by the International Data Corporation (IDC). This development comes shortly after Apple briefly held the top spot three months earlier.
IDC’s data reveals that iPhone shipments dropped to 50.1 million units during the first quarter of 2024, marking a 10% decline from the previous year and resulting in a 21% market share. Conversely, Samsung introduced its flagship Galaxy S24 in January, maintaining a stable market presence with a minor decrease in shipments of just under 1% year-over-year, leading to a 23% market share.
The most notable growth was observed among Chinese smartphone manufacturers, indicating ongoing challenges for Apple in this key market. Xiaomi, in particular, saw a dramatic increase of 34% in sales, boosting its market share to 14%. The surge was fueled by significant publicity tied to the launch of Xiaomi’s electric car, highlighting the company’s expanding influence.
