2023 Smartphone Shipments: Apple’s Dominance and the Surprising Market Trends

In the latest quarterly report for 2023, the smartphone industry has seen a remarkable trend with only two brands dominating the global shipment rankings. Among these, Apple emerges as a standout, securing seven spots in the top 10 list of most shipped smartphones for the year. This revelation is particularly surprising considering Apple’s position as one of the market’s pricier options. Yet, it’s clear that consumers are increasingly drawn to the brand, which has become more accessible compared to its past luxury status.

A Closer Look at the Top Performers of 2023

iPhones

The iPhone 14 Pro Max leads the chart as the year’s most shipped smartphone, a position it held strong for nine months. Following closely is the iPhone 15 Pro Max, an impressive feat given its late release in October, highlighting just three months of sales. The continued popularity of the iPhone 13, despite its age, underscores Apple’s lasting appeal, with no competing models from other brands challenging its position.

Interestingly, Samsung‘s Galaxy A14 4G is the first non-Apple device on the list, ranking sixth. Its success can be attributed to its affordability, capturing the segment of consumers seeking budget-friendly options.

Top 10 Most Shipped Smartphones of 2023:

  1. iPhone 14 Pro Max – 34 million units
  2. iPhone 15 Pro Max – 33 million units
  3. iPhone 14 – 29 million units
  4. iPhone 14 Pro – 29 million units
  5. iPhone 13 – 23 million units
  6. Galaxy A14 4G – 21 million units
  7. iPhone 15 Pro – 21 million units
  8. Galaxy A54 5G – 20 million units
  9. Galaxy A14 5G – 19 million units
  10. iPhone 15 – 17 million units

Despite Samsung’s presence in the list with its A-series models, the absence of high-end competitors from other brands is notable. This trend raises questions about the future of market competition and whether Apple’s dominance will continue unchallenged.