IDC: Smartphone shipments up 2.3% in Q4 2025, Apple is the clear winner

Apple Dominates as Global Smartphone Shipments Rise in Q4 2025

The global smartphone market is showing signs of recovery, with preliminary data from the International Data Corporation (IDC) revealing a 2.3% increase in shipments for the fourth quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in the previous year. A total of 336.3 million smartphones were shipped during this period, marking a significant uptick.

In a notable shift after more than 14 years, Apple has surged to become the world's leading smartphone vendor. The Cupertino giant secured the top spot with 81.3 million shipments, capturing a commanding 24.2% of the global market share. This achievement is largely attributed to the strong performance of its iPhone 17 series, which propelled Apple to its highest quarterly revenue ever and its most robust Q4 growth since 2021.

Despite falling to second place, Samsung demonstrated resilience with 61.2 million shipments and an 18.2% market share. The Korean manufacturer achieved an impressive year-on-year growth of over 18%, standing out as the fastest-growing brand within the top 5.

Xiaomi rounded out the top three with 37.8 million units shipped and an 11.2% market share. Following closely were vivo and Oppo, who were virtually tied for fourth place with 27 million and 26.9 million shipments, respectively.

This growth occurred amidst challenges including an ongoing memory chip shortage and economic uncertainties, such as tariffs and supply chain disruptions. The premium segment, in particular, saw sustained demand, partly driven by anticipation of upcoming price increases.

Looking at the full year of 2025, the smartphone market shipped a total of 1.26 billion units, with Apple once again emerging as the clear leader. Apple recorded a record 247.8 million shipments, securing a 19.7% global market share. This means that approximately one in every five smartphones shipped in 2025 was an iPhone.

Samsung secured the second position for the year with 241.2 million shipments and a 19.1% market share, reporting a solid 7.9% yearly growth. Xiaomi shipped 165.3 million units, while vivo and Oppo each contributed just over 8 million shipments to the annual total.

The outlook for 2026 suggests potential headwinds for the smartphone market. The continuing memory chip shortage is expected to significantly impact supply chains, potentially leading to a market decline as smartphone prices are anticipated to rise. IDC analysts suggest that the size and scale of Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) will be a crucial factor in navigating these challenges, with larger companies better positioned to secure favorable component pricing.

Source