Apple led global smartphone sales in 1st Q 2025, driven by strong iPhone 16e demand, despite looming tariffs and market uncertainty, says Counterpoint Research.
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| Apple captured the top position in global smartphone sales for Q1 2025 with the iPhone 16e, outperforming Samsung, Xiaomi, and others amid economic uncertainty. Image: Apple |
CUPERTINO, USA — April 15, 2025:
Apple emerged as the global leader in smartphone sales during the first quarter of 2025, propelled by strong demand for its newly launched iPhone 16e and robust performance in key markets such as Japan and India, according to data released Monday by Counterpoint Research.
The report attributes Apple’s dominance to its successful product cycle and continued popularity across Asia, particularly in countries with growing middle-class segments and increasing mobile adoption. While Apple led the market, Samsung followed closely with an 18% share, maintaining its presence across a range of price points. Xiaomi retained its upward trajectory, while vivo and OPPO rounded out the top five manufacturers.
Despite the overall 3% growth in global smartphone shipments in Q1 2025, Counterpoint Research forecasts a downturn for the rest of the year, citing economic volatility and newly imposed U.S. tariffs under President Donald Trump’s administration.
The shifting trade landscape and uncertainty over policy have cast a shadow on global consumer spending. “Tariff announcements in April have not yet impacted Q1 iPhone demand,” said Ankit Malhotra, senior analyst at Counterpoint. “However, the uncertainty surrounding tariffs and broader economic policy is likely to weigh on consumer confidence moving forward.”
The report noted that macroeconomic instability could lead consumers to delay smartphone purchases, which in turn could destabilize supply chains and increase financial risk for manufacturers. Escalating inflation and the risk of additional trade restrictions further complicate the global outlook.
Even with these headwinds, Apple’s strategic launch of the iPhone 16e has positioned it well for continued success—at least in the near term. As the second quarter unfolds, analysts will be closely watching consumer behavior, especially in emerging markets where price sensitivity could affect brand performance.
With Apple in the lead and the global market on edge, the smartphone industry enters the rest of 2025 with cautious optimism tempered by political and economic uncertainties.