The reason Apple reached the top.

The success of the iPhone 17 shows that Apple is expanding its appeal in the mainstream segment, instead of relying solely on high-end iPhone models as before.

Apple aims to become the world's largest smartphone manufacturer by 2025. Photo: Bloomberg .

Apple has just reclaimed its position as the world's largest smartphone manufacturer after more than a decade of chasing Samsung. According to data from IDC and Counterpoint , in 2025, Apple will account for approximately 20% of the global smartphone market share by shipment volume, slightly ahead of Samsung's 19%.

This marks the first time since the iPhone 4 era that Apple has taken the lead in the global market in terms of device shipments. This achievement comes amidst a challenging global economic environment, pressure on supply chains, rising component costs, and inflation driving up consumer prices.

Compared to the same period last year, Apple's iPhone shipments increased by 10%, while Samsung only achieved a 5% growth. The gap between the two giants is very narrow, but enough to bring Apple back to the top spot after 14 years.

Analysts believe Apple's competitive advantage during this period is closely tied to the iPhone 17 series. However, not all versions played an equal role in this success.

When the iPhone Air launched, it quickly attracted attention thanks to its distinctive slim and lightweight design. Interest in the iPhone Air surged on social media and in retail stores in the early days. However, after the initial excitement, limitations in battery life, the single rear camera, and performance revealed several weaknesses in the device.

According to published figures, the iPhone Air accounted for only about 3% of the total sales of the iPhone 17 series. Low sales forced Apple to drastically cut production. This model also quickly saw significant price reductions in some markets, raising doubts about the future of the iPhone Air line.

In contrast to the iPhone Air, the standard iPhone 17 became a key growth driver. For the first time, Apple equipped the mainstream iPhone model with a 120Hz ProMotion display, ending years of criticism surrounding the 60Hz displays on standard models.

Besides the screen upgrade, the iPhone 17 also features an improved camera with a 48MP ultrawide lens and a larger battery. Notably, Apple maintained the starting price of $799 for this product. According to data cited by PhoneArena , demand for the iPhone 17 increased by 31% compared to the iPhone 16, demonstrating significant appeal in the lower price segment.

The iPhone 17 series helped Apple achieve great success. Photo: Bloomberg .

Although iPhone 17 Pro models still account for 76% of total sales across the line, growth in this segment wasn't particularly outstanding compared to the previous year. This indicates a significant shift in Apple's growth strategy, with success stemming from expanding its mainstream user base rather than relying solely on loyal customers of high-end models.

However, Apple's return to the top position isn't solely due to internal strength. Samsung is going through a difficult period with leadership changes and a lack of hardware breakthroughs, especially in the camera field. A cautious product strategy coupled with unforeseen internal factors has caused sales to stagnate for the South Korean giant, creating an opportunity for Apple to rise.

Source: https://znews.vn/apple-tro-lai-dinh-bang-post1623474.html