In the third quarter (Q3) of 2024, Apple secured the top spots in the global best-selling smartphones list, according to a report by Counterpoint Research. The Cupertino-based tech giant led the market with multiple models from its iPhone 15 series, underscoring its continued dominance in the high-end smartphone segment. In addition to Apple’s strong showing, Samsung emerged as the manufacturer with the most models in the top 10 list, with a Galaxy S device achieving a top-10 rank for the first time since 2018. Together, these top 10 models accounted for 19% of the total smartphone market share, highlighting the ongoing demand for flagship and mid-range devices.
Top 10 Best-Selling Smartphones Globally in Q3 2024
According to Counterpoint Research’s Global Handset Model Sales Tracker, Apple’s latest iPhone 15 models led the smartphone sales rankings worldwide. Here’s the breakdown of the top 10 best-selling models:
1.iPhone 15 – Best-selling model globally
2.iPhone 15 Pro Max – Second place
3.iPhone 15 Pro – Third place
4.Samsung Galaxy A14
5.Samsung Galaxy A34
6.Samsung Galaxy A54
7.iPhone 14 – Seventh place
8.Samsung Galaxy A24
9.Redmi 13C 4G
10.Samsung Galaxy S24 – Tenth place, marking Samsung’s S series re-entry to the top 10 since 2018
Apple’s Dominance in Premium Devices
Apple’s iPhone 15 series dominated Q3 with the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and iPhone 15 Pro taking the first three positions. Additionally, the previous-generation iPhone 14 took the seventh spot, continuing to appeal to a broad base of consumers even a year after its launch. The Counterpoint report also highlighted that Q3 2024 marked the first time the iPhone Pro variants contributed to half of the total iPhone sales in a third quarter, reflecting a rising trend in consumer preference for premium models.
Apple’s iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max have become popular choices due to their advanced camera systems, powerful A17 Pro chip, and improved battery life, catering to the high-end smartphone market’s demands. Apple’s strategy of offering features exclusive to Pro models, such as titanium bodies and enhanced graphics, seems to resonate well with consumers looking for value in premium purchases.
Samsung’s Strong Representation with Budget Models
Samsung, despite facing stiff competition from Apple, claimed the most spots on the top 10 list with five models. Four of these, including the Galaxy A14, A34, A54, and A24, are budget-friendly devices, reflecting Samsung’s widespread popularity in the entry and mid-range market segments. This popularity is especially evident in markets such as Asia, Africa, and Latin America, where Samsung’s budget A-series models maintain strong sales.
Samsung’s Galaxy S24, positioned in tenth place, marked a significant milestone as the first Galaxy S-series model to enter the top 10 since 2018. The Galaxy S24’s robust performance, design, and camera capabilities have appealed to users looking for a flagship experience without the high-end price tag, demonstrating the potential for Samsung’s S-series resurgence.
Xiaomi’s Redmi 13C 4G: Budget Device That Made the Cut
Apart from Apple and Samsung, the only other manufacturer in the top 10 was Xiaomi, with its Redmi 13C 4G capturing the ninth spot. Xiaomi’s budget device underscores the brand’s focus on affordability without compromising on essential features, allowing it to compete effectively against more premium brands. Xiaomi has managed to retain a large segment of budget-conscious customers in markets such as India and Southeast Asia.
The Impact of AI on Flagship Models
Both Apple and Samsung are investing heavily in AI-powered features, adding to the appeal of their flagship devices. Apple’s iPhone 15 models, for example, are integrated with Apple Intelligence for more personalized user experiences, while Samsung’s Galaxy AI aims to enhance device performance, camera intelligence, and battery optimization on its high-end models. As both companies continue developing AI capabilities, their flagship devices are expected to deliver even more seamless, intuitive experiences, appealing to tech-savvy consumers worldwide.
High-End Smartphones Drive Market Trends
The Counterpoint report indicates a notable consumer shift toward high-end smartphones. With the increasing preference for Pro models, Apple is successfully bridging the sales gap between its standard and premium devices. The Q3 sales also reflect how flagship models drive brand value and consumer engagement, offering features and experiences that budget and mid-range models cannot.