Select Language:
The demand for the iPhone 17 series has brought Apple close to matching Samsung’s market share in the third quarter, according to recent IDC figures.
The data highlights this as “a significant milestone,” crediting strong sales of premium devices despite economic hurdles to three key factors.
According to CNET, IDC estimates Apple’s market share at 18.2% for Q3, nearly rivaling Samsung’s 19%.
Preorders for the iPhone 17, launched last month, surpassed those of last year’s iPhone 16. Apple sold around 58.6 million units during this period, reflecting a modest 2.9% growth compared to the same quarter in 2024. Samsung remains the leader, selling approximately 61.4 million phones and holding a 19% market share in the third quarter, which is a 6.3% boost over the previous year. Meanwhile, Apple’s market share stands slightly behind, at 18.2%.
IDC attributes the sustained sales success of both high-end iPhones and foldable smartphones to ongoing advancements in hardware and software. Additionally, consumer-friendly financing options such as the iPhone Upgrade Program and trade-in deals significantly influence purchasing decisions.
Senior IDC analyst Nabila Popal emphasizes that “it’s a noteworthy achievement,” citing smart financing strategies as key drivers that enable consumers to invest in premium devices costing between $800 and nearly $2,000.
“Manufacturers have mastered the art of innovation—not just in their products’ features but also in eliminating purchase barriers. They seamlessly combine top-tier devices with creative financing and aggressive trade-in offers, making upgrading a straightforward choice for buyers,” Popal explained.
So far, tariffs appear to have had a limited impact, though the true extent of their effect on demand remains uncertain.