**Apple Set to Overtake Samsung as Top Smartphone Maker in 2023**
Apple Inc is on track to surpass Samsung Electronics Co and reclaim its title as the world’s largest smartphone manufacturer this year, marking the first time in over a decade. This remarkable growth is attributed to the successful launch of the new iPhone 17 series and a significant wave of consumers upgrading their devices, as reported by Counterpoint Research.
The iPhone 17 models, which debuted in September, have gained immense popularity in both the United States and China, Apple’s key markets, resulting in double-digit year-over-year sales growth in these regions, according to Bloomberg.
**iPhone 17 Series: A Game Changer**
The iPhone 17 series, featuring four distinct models, has encouraged many users to upgrade their smartphones. The introduction of the iPhone Air, touted as the world’s thinnest iPhone, has led to long lines of eager customers waiting to purchase the device. Additionally, Apple is benefiting from a reduction in US-China trade tensions and a weakening dollar, which has facilitated increased purchases in emerging markets.
**Apple vs. Samsung: A Shift in Market Dynamics**
This surge in growth positions Apple to overtake its long-time rival, Samsung Electronics, with iPhone shipments expected to rise by 10% in 2025, compared to Samsung’s projected growth of 4.6%. The global smartphone market is anticipated to grow by 3.3% in 2025, with Apple expected to capture a market share of 19.4%. This would mark the first time since 2011 that Apple holds the number one position in the smartphone market.
Counterpoint analyst Yang Wang noted, “Beyond the highly positive market reception for the iPhone 17 series, the key driver behind the upgraded shipment outlook lies in the replacement cycle reaching its inflection point.” The analyst also highlighted the increasing sales of secondhand iPhones, which are contributing to the market’s growth. “Consumers who purchased smartphones during the Covid-19 boom are now entering their upgrade phase. Furthermore, 358 million secondhand iPhones were sold between 2023 and Q2 2025. These users are also likely to upgrade to a new iPhone in the coming years,” Wang added.
**Looking Ahead: Future Apple Innovations**
Looking forward, Wang is optimistic about Apple’s long-term prospects, predicting that the company will maintain its position as the top phone seller through 2029. The anticipated launch of a foldable iPhone in 2026 and a budget-friendly iPhone 17e is expected to further support Apple’s growth trajectory. Additionally, a significant redesign of the iPhone is expected in 2027, as previously reported.
Apple recently announced that its sales are growing faster than anticipated, with the upcoming holiday quarter projected to approach a record $140 billion in revenue.
**FAQ**
**Q: What factors are contributing to Apple’s growth in the smartphone market?**
A: Apple’s growth is driven by the successful launch of the iPhone 17 series, increased consumer upgrades, a reduction in trade tensions, and a favorable economic environment in emerging markets.
