The year 2024 marked another milestone for Apple, as the tech giant dominated global smartphone shipments, according to the latest Canalys sell-in estimates. Apple secured an impressive seven out of the top ten most-shipped phones, with the iPhone 15 crowned as the leading device globally.
Key Insights from 2024 Smartphone Shipments
- Apple iPhone 15:
The iPhone 15 accounted for 3% of the 1.22 billion smartphones shipped globally, translating to approximately 36.6 million units. This made it the most-shipped smartphone of the year. - Other Top Apple Devices:
The iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro Max secured second and third positions, showcasing the strong demand for Apple’s premium models. - Samsung’s Performance:
While Apple dominated, Samsung was the only other brand to break into the top ten. The Galaxy A15, Galaxy A15 5G, and Galaxy S24 Ultra represented Samsung’s contribution to the leaderboard.- The Galaxy A15 took the fourth spot, while the Galaxy A15 5G and S24 Ultra ranked eighth and ninth, respectively.
- Longevity of iPhone 13:
Remarkably, the three-year-old iPhone 13 held its place in the top ten, accounting for 1.5% of global shipments or approximately 18.3 million units.
2024 vs. 2023: Smartphone Shipment Trends
The chart below compares the top smartphones of 2024 with the previous year (2023).
- In 2024, Apple’s dominance extended further, with newer models like the iPhone 16 Pro Max making a significant impact.
- In 2023, the iPhone 14 Pro Max led the rankings, while Samsung’s Galaxy A14 4G and Galaxy A54 5G were standout performers.
What Does This Mean for the Smartphone Industry?
Apple’s ability to dominate the premium smartphone market is evident in its control of the top shipment spots year after year. Meanwhile, Samsung’s mid-range and flagship devices maintain their appeal in various markets.
For consumers, this trend highlights:
- The growing demand for high-performance devices in the premium and mid-range segments.
- The enduring relevance of older models like the iPhone 13, thanks to software support and robust performance.
The smartphone industry in 2024 reaffirmed Apple’s dominance, driven by the widespread popularity of the iPhone 15 and its counterparts. Samsung also continues to hold its ground in the highly competitive market.
As we look ahead, the release of upcoming models like the iPhone 16 series and Galaxy Z Fold 7 will undoubtedly shape the 2025 rankings.
Source: Canalys
