
After dominating the smartphone industry for over a decade, Apple claimed the top spot in 2023, surpassing Samsung. The iPhone became the best-selling smartphone globally, making up 20.1% of all smartphone sales, while Samsung held 19.4% of the market. The iPhone took the top spot in 2023 with 234.6m units sold, according to figures from the International Data Corporation (IDC), overtaking Samsung’s 226.6m units.
According to IDC, global smartphone shipments declined 3.2% to 1.17bn units in 2023, though the group said the industry was recovering after a sluggish period.

According to data from the International Data Corporation (IDC), the iPhone became the top-selling smartphone in China for the first time in 2023. Apple achieved a record-high market share of 17.3 percent during that year. In the fourth quarter, local competitor Huawei trailed behind Apple with a market share of 13.9 percent.
Apple Ends Samsung’s 13-Year Reign According to IDC
Research firm IDC reported that Apple broke Samsung’s 13-year streak as the world’s largest smartphone manufacturer. Samsung had held the title since 2010, surpassing Nokia. Data from IDC shows Apple’s market share grew from 18.8% to 20.1%, shipping over 234.6 million iPhones in 2023. Meanwhile, Samsung’s market share decreased from 21.7% to 19.4%, maintaining its position as the second-largest player.
Apple’s Continued Dominance Despite Samsung’s Leadership in Android Market
Although Apple leads in overall smartphone sales, Samsung still dominates the Android market, maintaining a 19.4% market share. Samsung recorded 226.6 million shipments in 2023, holding a significant lead over rivals like Oppo and Xiaomi.
Financial Snapshot – Apple’s Massive Market Cap vs. Samsung’s Position
Apple’s current market cap stands at $2.82 trillion, a stark contrast to Samsung’s $350.18 billion. Despite losing its crown as the top smartphone manufacturer, Samsung remains a major player.
Top Players in the Smartphone Market
The top smartphone market leaders include Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, and OPPO. These companies continue to shape and influence the global smartphone landscape.