In Q3 2024, Apple’s iPhone 15 emerged as the best-selling smartphone worldwide, according to market research by Counterpoint.
The base model iPhone 15 led the pack, closely followed by Apple’s premium options, the iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro.
This strong showing reflects a shift in consumer preference toward high-end devices, driven by factors like attractive trade-in deals and flexible financing options, even in emerging markets.
Apple’s success is notable, but Samsung also performed well, securing multiple spots in the top 10, primarily with its budget-friendly Galaxy A series models.
This range has proven highly popular with consumers seeking affordable yet reliable options, offering features that meet the needs of cost-conscious users. Samsung’s flagship, the Galaxy S24, came in at tenth place—marking the first time since 2018 that a Galaxy S series device has made the global top 10 list in Q3.
Meanwhile, Xiaomi continued its competitive presence with the Redmi 13C, which secured a higher position than Samsung’s Galaxy S24.
The Redmi 13C builds on the success of the Redmi 12C, featuring improved specifications that appeal to budget-minded buyers without sacrificing quality. This affordable device outperformed several competitors, solidifying Xiaomi’s position as a leading budget smartphone option.
Altogether, the top 10 smartphones accounted for an impressive 19% of global smartphone sales in Q3, showcasing the impact of both high-end and budget devices on the market.
Apple’s iPhone 15 models captured consumer interest due to enhanced features and accessible financing, while Samsung and Xiaomi showed strength in the budget segment with popular offerings from their Galaxy A and Redmi series, respectively.
This trend of higher-end smartphone adoption reflects evolving consumer preferences, as buyers increasingly seek out more feature-rich options.
As manufacturers continue to innovate across different price points, the competition for top spots in global sales remains fierce, setting the stage for a dynamic year-end in the smartphone market.
