In a shift that could reshape the global smartphone landscape, Apple is inching closer than ever to dethroning Samsung as the global smartphone shipments leader.
The spotlight is firmly on the highly anticipated iPhone 15 series, poised to propel Apple to the top position unless unforeseen production issues arise.
This revelation comes amid a backdrop of a 6% decline in worldwide smartphone shipments, marking the lowest figure in a decade, according to a press release from Counterpoint Research.
Apple Moves to Dethrone Samsung
In the competitive global smartphone market, two industry titans, Samsung and Apple, have long engaged in a fierce rivalry.
Renowned for its extensive portfolio of smartphones distributed globally, Samsung has enjoyed an enduring dominance as the leader of annual smartphone shipments.
Nonetheless, a potential disruption of the established order appears imminent, primarily because the iPhone 15 series's performance aligns with sky-high expectations.
Counterpoint Research cites preliminary figures in a press release that project Apple's ascent to the number one position in the smartphone arena.
Android Authority notes that this would signify a critical moment in Apple's history, unseating the reigning champion Samsung. This achievement is remarkable considering the backdrop of a 6% decline in global smartphone shipments, plummeting to 1.15 billion units - the lowest figure in the last ten years.
The Smartphone Market
The historically robust North American tech market, known for its tech enthusiasts, has encountered a stumbling block during the first half of 2023 - mainly caused by consumer reluctance to upgrade their devices, resulting in notably low upgrades across various carriers.
The iPhone 15 series presents carriers with a prime opportunity to attract high-value customers. The report highlights a strategic opening for Apple to tap into users looking to upgrade from the iPhone 12, providing an appealing avenue for aggressive promotions.
Apple's influence stretches beyond U.S. shores. The company's strategic presence in China's growing premium segment is beneficial.
A Resilient Premium Market
Ethan Qi, Associate Director for China, notes Apple's strengthening position in the premium market, aligning well with the global trend toward premium and ultra-premium growth. This trend is advantageous for Apple due to its robust portfolio in the higher-end segments.
Apple's resilience comes to the fore as the global smartphone market braces for an unprecedented decline. A resilient premium market, coupled with a strong performance in the U.S., has the potential to propel Apple to the pinnacle of the smartphone world.
Jeff Fieldhack, Research Director for North America, encapsulates the tense situation: "It's the closest Apple's been to the top spot. We're talking about a spread that's literally a few days' worth of sales. Assuming Apple doesn't run into production problems like it did last year, it's really a toss-up at this point."
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