Apple continues its reign in the smartphone industry as the iPhone 15 series dominated global sales in 2024, securing multiple spots in the top 10 best-selling smartphones. From budget-conscious consumers to high-end flagship enthusiasts, iPhones remained the preferred choice for millions worldwide. But what led to this overwhelming success? Let’s break down the reasons behind Apple’s market dominance, supported by sales statistics, trends, and expert insights.
iPhone’s Unmatched Market Presence in 2024
According to Counterpoint Research, the iPhone 15 emerged as the best-selling smartphone of Q3 2024, followed closely by the iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro. Apple’s strong foothold in the market was further reinforced by the continued popularity of older models like the iPhone 14 and iPhone 13, which secured places in the top 10 due to price cuts and strong demand in emerging markets.
Top 10 Best-Selling Smartphones of 2024 (Q3)
1. Apple iPhone 15
2. Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max
3. Apple iPhone 15 Pro
4. Samsung Galaxy A15 4G
5. Samsung Galaxy A15 5G
6. Samsung Galaxy A35 5G
7. Samsung Galaxy A05
8. Apple iPhone 14
9. Xiaomi Redmi 13C 4G
10. Samsung Galaxy S24
Apple’s dominance in Q1 2024 was even more evident when the iPhone 15 Pro Max led global sales, with the iPhone 15 and 15 Pro following closely behind. Meanwhile, Samsung occupied five positions in the top 10, showcasing a strong presence in the mid-range segment.
Why Did iPhones Dominate the Market?
1. The Premium iPhone Appeal
One of the biggest shifts in 2024 was the rising consumer preference for high-end smartphones. Pro models accounted for half of Apple’s total sales, a first for Q3, reflecting a growing trend toward premium devices. This was fueled by:
• Advanced features, such as the A17 Pro chip, Dynamic Island, and improved battery life.
• Strong trade-in offers and financing schemes, making Pro models more accessible in key markets like India and China.
2. Price Cuts and Discounts on Older Models
The iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 continued to sell exceptionally well, with the iPhone 13 ranking fourth globally in some quarters. Key reasons for this sustained demand included:
• Heavy discounts in Japan
• Aggressive trade-in programs in India and the U.S.
• A strong price-to-performance ratio for users who didn’t need the latest flagship.
3. Apple’s Ecosystem Advantage
Apple’s tightly integrated ecosystem—spanning iPhones, MacBooks, iPads, Apple Watch, and AirPods—has made it hard for users to switch brands. Features like iMessage, AirDrop, and seamless device continuity make iPhones an attractive long-term investment.
4. Strong Branding and Customer Loyalty
Apple’s premium brand image continues to influence purchasing decisions. A Counterpoint survey found that Apple enjoys one of the highest customer retention rates, with over 90% of iPhone users staying within the Apple ecosystem when upgrading.
The Competition: Samsung and Xiaomi’s Market Push
While Apple dominated the top 3 spots, Samsung and Xiaomi remained strong contenders. Samsung’s budget-friendly Galaxy A series secured four spots in the top 10, targeting price-conscious buyers in India, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, Xiaomi’s Redmi 13C 4G made a surprise entry, highlighting demand for affordable 4G devices in emerging markets.