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The 15 Best-Selling Mobile Phones of All Time
The world of mobile phones has undergone tremendous evolution since their inception, with a few models standing out not only for their features but also for their incredible sales figures. Today, we take a closer look at the top 15 best-selling mobile phones of all time, reflecting data up to 2023. Each phone has made an indelible mark on the smartphone market, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence modern devices.
Here’s a rundown of the phones that have topped the sales charts:
Nokia 1100 – 250 Million Units
The Nokia 1100 remains the best-selling mobile phone in history. Launched in 2003, this device boasted long battery life and durability that were unmatched at the time, catering particularly to emerging markets. Its simple design and user-friendly interface made it a popular choice, selling over 250 million units.
Nokia 1110 – 248 Million Units
Following closely behind is the Nokia 1110, which sold approximately 248 million units. Also launched in 2005, it continued the trend of simplicity and reliability. The phone was equipped with a monochrome screen and featured basic games, appealing to users looking for straightforward functionality.
iPhone 6 / 6 Plus – 222 Million Units
Apple’s iPhone 6 and 6 Plus were game-changers upon their release in 2014. These devices brought a bigger screen and a sleeker design, attracting a broad audience. With features like NFC payments and improved camera specs, it sold around 222 million units, solidifying Apple’s presence in the smartphone arena.
Nokia 105 – 200 Million Units
Another stalwart from Nokia, the Nokia 105, sold an impressive 200 million units since its inception in 2013. It became highly sought after in developing markets, known for its ruggedness and basic features that catered to users who required only the essentials.
iPhone 6S / 6S Plus – 174 Million Units
Following the success of its predecessor, the iPhone 6S and 6S Plus reached remarkable sales figures with approximately 174 million units. Launched in 2015, these phones introduced enhanced camera capabilities and the 3D Touch feature, making them popular among tech enthusiasts.
iPhone 5S – 165 Million Units
Released in 2013, the iPhone 5S changed the landscape of mobile security with its fingerprint scanner. Accounting for 165 million units sold, it introduced a new standard in smartphone biometric technology and remains a memorable entry in the Apple lineup.
Nokia 3210 – 161 Million Units
This iconic phone from the late 1990s set the standard for mobile gaming with its pre-installed Snake game. Selling around 161 million units, the Nokia 3210 became a cultural phenomenon, especially among younger audiences at the time.
iPhone 7 / 7 Plus – 160 Million Units
Apple continued its tradition of innovation with the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, recording sales of around 160 million units. The removal of the headphone jack and the introduction of water resistance in this 2016 release were significant changes that garnered both praise and criticism.
iPhone 11 / 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max – 159 Million Units
The iPhone 11 series, launched in late 2019, focused heavily on camera improvements and battery life. Surging past 159 million units in sales, it was a crucial point in Apple’s strategy to enhance its market share.
iPhone XR / X / XS / XS Max – 151 Million Units
With around 151 million units sold, this iPhone series introduced several innovative features, including an edge-to-edge display and improved performance specs. Launched in 2017, these models appealed to various customer preferences.
Nokia 6600 – 150 Million Units
Nokia’s 6600 was once one of the most popular smartphones in the early 2000s, selling 150 million units. Key features included a camera and support for Java applications, laying the groundwork for future smartphones.
Nokia 1200 – 150 Million Units
The Nokia 1200, another model known for its durability and long battery life, also sold 150 million units. Released in 2007, it specifically tapped into rural markets.
Nokia 5230 – 150 Million Units
With its touchscreen and multimedia capabilities, the Nokia 5230 appealed to a diverse audience, contributing to its sales of approximately 150 million units since 2009.
Samsung E1100 – 150 Million Units
The Samsung E1100, competing with Nokia, sold around 150 million units. It was known for its reliability and simple features, quickly gaining traction in multiple markets.
iPhone 5 – 146 Million Units
Finally, the iPhone 5, launched in 2012, marked a new era with its larger screen compared to previous models, boasting 146 million units sold. The introduction of a lighting connector and a more powerful processor contributed to its rapid success.
Conclusion
These mobile phones have not only shaped the technical landscape but also the cultural fabric of various societies throughout the years. Each device has contributed to evolving user expectations and the overall market dynamics we see today. As newer models continue to emerge, it will be interesting to see if any of them can break into this elite list of best-sellers.
The data provided here showcases the remarkable history of consumer electronics, providing an insight into what features and designs resonate with people across the globe. As we look toward the future, it’s evident that innovation will always remain at the forefront of mobile phone development.
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