Apple, Samsung Dominate Q1 Phone Sales: iPhone 16 Leads

mobile phones

Apple and Samsung once again asserted their dominance in Europe’s smartphone market during the first quarter (Q1) of 2025, with both companies claiming all the top ten spots on the best-selling smartphone list, according to a new report by Counterpoint Research.

Apple led the charge with five devices in the top 10, securing the top three positions with its iPhone 16 series.

The iPhone 16 Pro emerged as the most popular device across Europe, capturing 6% of all smartphone sales during the quarter. It was closely followed by the iPhone 16 Pro Max and the standard iPhone 16, each holding a 5% market share.

Samsung trailed Apple with a strong presence of its own. The Galaxy S25 Ultra and Galaxy S25 ranked fourth and fifth respectively, each capturing 3% of total sales. The previous generation Galaxy S24 followed with a 2% share. Samsung’s mid-range offerings also made the list, with the Galaxy A55 and Galaxy A16 5G each contributing 2% to total Q1 sales.

A noteworthy addition to this quarter’s rankings was the debut of Apple’s iPhone 16e. Despite being a new entry, the device quickly climbed into the top 10 during its first full month of availability following a late-February launch. However, Counterpoint Research noted that the 16e’s initial sales lagged behind those of previous affordable models like the iPhone SE (2020) and SE (2022).

This slower uptake is likely due to its higher price point. The iPhone 16e starts at €699 in Europe—significantly higher than the iPhone SE (2022) at €519 and the SE (2020) at €479. Nevertheless, the 16e’s inclusion in the top ten shows it is gaining traction.

Rounding out the top ten was the iPhone 15, demonstrating continued demand for last year’s flagship as Apple continues to offer it as a more affordable alternative.

The Q1 rankings highlight Apple and Samsung’s tight grip on the European market, with no other brands making it into the top tier.