According to new data from IDC , the popularity of the iPhone 17 series has given Apple a significant boost , as it has almost managed to equal Samsung 's market share for the third quarter of the year.
The company describes it as "a remarkable achievement," recognizing Apple's ability to sell even more premium phones in a difficult economy.
Increased demand for iPhone 17
CNET reports that IDC estimates Apple's market share at 18.2% (in the third quarter), almost equaling Samsung's 19%.
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“Pre-orders for the iPhone 17, which was released last month, surpassed those for last year’s iPhone 16.Apple sold 58.6 million iPhones this quarter, up 2.9% from the same period in 2024. Samsung continues to dominate the phone market with 61.4 million units sold, holding 19% of the market in the third quarter of the year — a 6.3% increase from the same period last year. Apple, meanwhile, trails Samsung slightly with an 18.2% market share this quarter,” IDC says.
IDC says that continued innovation in both hardware and software is the key factor in the continued sales success of both premium iPhones and foldable phones. However, financing programs like the iPhone Upgrade Program and trade-in offers also play a significant role.
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It's a remarkable achievement, says Nabila Popal, senior research director at IDC, citing smart financing options as the reason people continue to buy these high-end phones, which cost from $800 to nearly $2,000.
“Phone manufacturers have mastered the art of innovation not only in hardware and software, but also in removing barriers to purchase. They have seamlessly combined cutting-edge devices with innovative financing models and aggressive trade-in programs that make the decision to upgrade a ‘no-brainer’ for consumers,” Popal said.
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The company says that so far the impact of the tariffs does not appear to be that severe, although of course we don't know how strong demand would have been without them.
