Q1 2025 Global Smartphone Market Growth: Key Insights

Global Smartphone Market Sees Growth in Q1 2025

The global smartphone market has started 2025 on a positive note, with worldwide shipments growing 1.5% year-over-year to 304.9 million units in the first quarter. According to a preliminary report, Samsung and Apple remain the top two players in the market.

Market Leaders

• Samsung: Regained market leadership with a 19.9% market share and shipped 60.6 million units. The success of the Galaxy S25 series and the latest Galaxy A36 and Galaxy A56 models drove Samsung’s growth.
• Apple: Recorded its best Q1 ever in terms of units shipped (57.9 million units) with a 19% market share. However, Apple’s performance in China declined as iPhone Pro models were exempt from the Chinese government subsidy program.

Other Top Players

• Xiaomi: Came in third place with a 13.7% market share and 2.5% year-over-year growth in shipments. Xiaomi shipped 41.8 million units and recorded growth in China due to government subsidies.
• Oppo: Retained fourth position with a 7.7% market share, but shipments declined in international markets.
• Vivo: Ranked fifth with a 7.4% market share and 6.3% year-over-year growth driven by strong demand for low-end devices and the V series.

Government Subsidies Boost Sales

The Chinese government’s subsidy program for smartphones priced under CNY 6,000 (roughly Rs. 70,000) has positively impacted sales of mid-range devices from Chinese manufacturers. This program has contributed to the growth of Chinese brands in their domestic market.

Future Outlook

Despite growth in the smartphone market, economic uncertainty may dampen consumer demand in the coming months. The dependence on China’s supply chain remains strong, complicating long-term planning for many companies.