Apple has moved ahead of Samsung to become the world’s biggest smartphone seller by volume, according to new industry estimates — a milestone that ends Samsung’s long-running lead at the top of the market.
Data from International Data Corporation (IDC) shows Apple shipped 234.6 million iPhones in 2023, giving it about 20.1% of the global market, while Samsung shipped 226.6 million units for a 19.4% share.
The leadership change comes despite a difficult year for the overall smartphone industry. IDC estimates global shipments fell 3.2% in 2023 to roughly 1.17 billion phones, as consumers held onto devices longer and demand remained weak in several markets.
Analysts say Apple’s rise was supported by strong demand for premium models and consistent upgrades among iPhone users. At the same time, Samsung faced heavier pressure in the Android ecosystem, where rising competition from Chinese manufacturers has intensified the battle for market share.
Behind Apple and Samsung, IDC’s preliminary ranking placed Xiaomi in third, followed by Oppo and Transsion.