The global smartphone market continues to see millions of devices sold every single day, but the question remains—which smartphone do people buy the most? A new industry report has provided the answer, and to no one’s surprise, Apple remains the undisputed leader.
According to the latest figures released by Counterpoint Research, Apple’s iPhone 16 was the best-selling smartphone worldwide during the first half of 2025. Despite ongoing global inflation and declining purchasing power in many regions, Apple’s iPhones continue to dominate consumer demand.
Apple Dominates the Top Three Spots
The report revealed that from April to June 2025, iPhone 16 maintained its position as the top-selling device globally. Its siblings also followed closely:
- iPhone 16 Pro Max secured second place.
- iPhone 16 Pro ranked third.
This dominance reflects Apple’s strong grip on the premium smartphone market, where design, performance, and brand loyalty outweigh cost concerns for millions of buyers.
Samsung Holds Ground in Mid-Range Market
While Apple commanded the top three positions, Samsung remained strong in the mid-range and budget segments.
- Samsung Galaxy A16 took fourth place.
- Galaxy A06 followed in fifth place.
These models, known for their affordability and solid performance, appeal to price-conscious consumers in emerging markets, helping Samsung retain significant global presence.
Other iPhone Models Also Among Top Sellers
Interestingly, Apple’s iPhone 16e, which was introduced in February 2025, also made it into the list of top-selling smartphones, securing sixth place.
This highlights Apple’s ability to cater to different market segments. While the Pro models attract premium buyers, the iPhone 16e offers a more accessible entry point without compromising too much on features.
A Continuation of Apple’s 2024 Success
The first quarter of 2025 (January to March) had already shown similar results, with iPhone 16 emerging as the best-selling phone globally. The latest report confirms that Apple has maintained this lead across the first six months of the year.
This momentum builds on Apple’s strong performance in 2024, when the iPhone 15 was the world’s top-selling smartphone with a 3% market share. Following it were the iPhone 16 Pro Max (launched in September 2024) and the iPhone 15 Pro Max, further showing Apple’s consistent market dominance year after year.
Why iPhones Still Lead Despite Rising Prices
What makes this achievement even more notable is the current global economic climate. Rising inflation and declining consumer purchasing power should, in theory, dampen demand for high-priced devices. Yet, Apple continues to thrive.
Several factors explain this trend:
- Brand Loyalty: Apple enjoys unmatched loyalty, with millions of repeat customers upgrading regularly.
- Ecosystem Integration: Devices like iPads, Macs, Apple Watch, and AirPods create a seamless user experience that keeps consumers invested in the Apple ecosystem.
- Strong Resale Value: iPhones retain higher resale value than most Android devices, making them a smarter long-term investment for buyers.
- Prestige Factor: In many markets, owning an iPhone is seen as a status symbol, making it aspirational beyond just functionality.
Market Outlook
As 2025 moves into its second half, analysts expect Apple to continue performing strongly, particularly with the release of its upcoming iPhone 17 series, which is anticipated to drive another surge in global sales. However, competition remains fierce, especially from Samsung, Xiaomi, and other Chinese manufacturers targeting mid-range and budget consumers.
Still, the first half of 2025 reaffirms a long-standing reality: Apple’s iPhone continues to be the most desired smartphone in the world, maintaining its lead despite economic challenges and fierce competition.
