Apple and Samsung dominated global smartphone sales in the first quarter of 2025. In a new report from Counterpoint Research, the two companies held nine of the top ten spots. The only other company to appear was Xiaomi.
Apple and Samsung Dominate Smartphone Sales in Early 2025
The iPhone 16 was the top-selling phone from January to March. It was a comeback to the top for a regular iPhone model, the first since 2023. The phone sold especially well in the Middle East, Africa, and Japan. These regions saw the most iPhone 16 sales growth.
Apple also took the next two spots. Second was the iPhone 16 Pro Max, followed by the iPhone 16 Pro in third. Together, these two Pro models represented nearly half of Apple’s total iPhone sales for the quarter. This shows strong demand for high-end iPhones.
Sitting in the number four spot was the iPhone 15, which still managed to hold its own even after new models were released.
Samsung’s best-seller, the Galaxy A16 5G, ranked fifth. The affordable model is still a good option for value hunters.
Top Smartphones of Q1 2025
The Galaxy A06 ranked sixth. It is another budget model that is popular in price-sensitive markets. Samsung’s only flagship model in the top ten, the Galaxy S25 Ultra, ranked seventh. It shows that premium phones still enjoy a strong following.
Xiaomi took the eighth spot with the Redmi 14C. It was the only device from a non-Apple and non-Samsung brand in the rankings. Xiaomi’s presence shows its continued strength in the budget segment.
Samsung returned to the list with the Galaxy A55 at number nine. Finally, Apple rounded out the top ten with the iPhone 16 Plus.
Overall, Apple and Samsung continue to lead the global smartphone market. Their mix of premium and affordable smartphones appeals to a wide consumer base. The single entry of Xiaomi shows there’s still room for other players, especially in affordable price segments. But for the time being, the smartphone race is between the two tech giants.
