iPhone 16e hot selling, Apple phones top global shipment

According to data released by market research firm Counterpoint Research on Monday, April 14, with the strong demand for the iPhone 16e and markets like Japan and India, Apple has claimed the top spot in global smartphone sales in the first quarter of 2025 with a market share of 19%.

While Apple’s sales performance in the United States, Europe, and China remains steady or declining, it continues to demonstrate strong momentum in emerging markets, surpassing Samsung’s 18% market share. Xiaomi ranks third, with vivo and OPPO following in fourth and fifth place respectively.

Another market research firm, IDC (International Data Corporation), reported a 1.5% year-on-year increase in global smartphone shipments in the first quarter of 2025. IDC noted that Apple adjusted its supply chain in advance to avoid the high tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, resulting in a significant increase in shipments.

Reports suggest that Apple transported around 600 tons, approximately 1.5 million iPhones, from India to the United States via chartered flights.

However, Trump recently decided to temporarily withhold imposing equivalent tariffs on smartphones, computers, and certain electronic products from China, leading to a general increase in global tech stocks on Monday. Ryan Reith, Vice President of IDC, stated, “The US government’s temporary pause on import tariffs for Chinese phones has provided some breathing room for businesses. However, amid ongoing tariff fluctuations, the high reliance on the Chinese supply chain remains unchanged, and US enterprises should utilize the current exemption period to expedite production and shipment.”

The iPhone 16e, launched last month as the new generation of budget-friendly models to replace the SE series, is priced at $599 and features Apple Intelligence artificial intelligence functions almost identical to the Pro models. According to Wccftech analysis, this model has been widely favored by consumers in emerging markets, and its sales are expected to continue to rise in the next quarter.

Samsung’s delayed launch of the Galaxy S25 series resulted in a weaker performance in the first quarter compared to the same period last year, causing its market share to drop from 21% to 18%; Xiaomi’s market share increased from 13% to 14%, benefiting from the relatively affordable prices in the midst of China’s challenging economic recovery, along with vivo and OPPO.

Despite a 3% overall market growth in the first quarter of this year, Counterpoint predicts a slight decline in annual sales due to tariff uncertainties. The imposition of tariffs by the United States on imports from countries such as China, India, and Vietnam may raise smartphone prices, further suppressing demand, potentially impacting global sales.

(This article references reports by Reuters and Wccftech)