Apple sold more phones than Samsung in '23 despite losing the top spot of most valuable company

A few days ago, Apple lost the top spot of the most valuable company to Microsoft, but New data from the International Data Corporation (IDC) reveals a shift in the global smartphone market for 2023, with Apple surpassing long-time leader Samsung in total unit shipments. Apple is currently suffering from low sales in China, and as a result, they are offering bigger discounts than ever.

Here are some key findings from the report:

• Apple shipped 234.6 million iPhones in 2023, representing a 3.7% increase from 2022 and securing a 20.1% market share.
• Samsung shipped 226.6 million units in 2023, a 13.6% decrease from its 2022 peak, resulting in a 19.4% market share.
• Apple’s performance was particularly strong in the fourth quarter of 2023, with shipments increasing 11.6% year-over-year to 80.5 million units, while Samsung’s declined 10.9% to 53 million units.
• Factors contributing to Apple’s success include strong performance in the premium segment, fueled by trade-in programs and financing options, and a robust fourth quarter.
• Samsung’s decline is attributed to various factors, including macroeconomic challenges and increased competition in the Android market.

Xiaomi maintained its third-place position, with 145.9 million units shipped in 2023 (12.5% market share). OPPO and vivo saw shipment declines in 2023, landing them in fourth and fifth place, respectively.

IDC predicts a 3.9% growth in the global smartphone market for 2024. Increased competition is anticipated within the Android ecosystem, with players like Huawei, OnePlus, and Google vying for market share.

More here.