The global smartphone market closed out 2025 on a positive note, according to new preliminary data from the International Data Corporation (IDC). Worldwide smartphone shipments reached 336.3 million units in Q4 2025, representing a 2.3% year-over-year increase compared to the same period in 2024. Most notably, Apple emerged as the clear winner, overtaking Samsung to become the world’s top smartphone vendor for the first time in over 14 years.

Apple led the market with 81.3 million shipments during the quarter, securing a 24.2% global market share. The strong performance was largely driven by the success of the iPhone 17 series, which helped Apple achieve its highest-ever quarterly revenue and its strongest Q4 growth since 2021. This milestone marks a significant shift in the competitive landscape, as Apple capitalized on strong demand in the premium segment.

Samsung, while dropping to second place, still posted an impressive finish to the year. The company shipped 61.2 million devices in Q4 2025, accounting for an 18.2% market share. Samsung also recorded the highest year-over-year growth among the top five brands, with shipments up more than 18%, highlighting strong momentum despite losing the top spot. Xiaomi followed in third place with 37.8 million shipments and an 11.2% market share, while vivo and Oppo rounded out the top five with roughly 27 million units each.

Looking at the full-year picture, IDC reports that 1.26 billion smartphones were shipped globally in 2025, reflecting 1.9% annual growth. Apple once again dominated, shipping a record 247.8 million units and capturing 19.7% of the global market. In practical terms, nearly one out of every five smartphones shipped in 2025 was an iPhone. Samsung closely followed with 241.2 million shipments and a 19.1% market share, while Xiaomi, vivo, and Oppo completed the top five.

Despite the growth, IDC notes that the market continues to face challenges, including ongoing memory chip shortages, tariffs, and supply chain disruptions. These pressures are expected to intensify in 2026, potentially leading to higher smartphone prices and an overall market decline. According to IDC analysts, large manufacturers with greater scale will be better positioned to weather these challenges, as their buying power allows them to secure components at more favorable prices.