Michał NawrockiIn the second quarter of the year, there has been a significant change in the top-selling smartphone models globally. Instead of the usual flagship devices, affordable options like the iPhone 15 and Galaxy A15 are taking the lead.
According to the latest Global Monthly Handset Model Sales Tracker report by Counterpoint Research, the iPhone 15 has emerged as the best-selling device in Q2 of 2024, capturing 4.1% of the total smartphone sales for the quarter. Following closely behind are the iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro, with 3.7% and 3.1% of the total sales respectively.
Samsung’s budget-friendly offerings, the Galaxy A15 5G and Galaxy A15 4G, secured the fourth and fifth positions, followed by the iPhone 14 and Galaxy A55. Xiaomi’s affordable Redmi 13C 4G also made it to the list, accounting for 1.5% of the total smartphone sales in the quarter.
A noteworthy observation is the absence of many flagship models in the top 10 rankings for Q2. While devices like the iPhone 15 Plus and Galaxy S24 were part of the list in Q1 of 2024, they have been replaced by more budget-friendly options from Samsung and Xiaomi in the second quarter.
Although Apple’s iPhone 15 series dominates the top 10 list, Samsung maintains a larger market share in total smartphone shipments for Q2 of 2024. According to a separate report by Canalys, the South Korean giant shipped approximately 53.5 million devices in the quarter, capturing a 19% market share. On the other hand, Apple shipped 45.6 million devices, holding a 16% market share.
Xiaomi secures the third spot in total smartphone shipments for the quarter, despite only one of their devices making it to the top 10 list. The Chinese OEM shipped 42.3 million devices with a 15% market share, marking an impressive 27% growth compared to the same period last year. In comparison, Samsung and Apple saw marginal increases of only 1% and 6% respectively in their shipments.
The Evolution of Budget Smartphones in the Global Market: Adapting to Consumer Trends
As the shift towards budget-friendly smartphone models continues to gain momentum in the global market, several key questions arise regarding this changing landscape.
1. What is driving the surge in popularity of budget smartphone models?
Consumers are increasingly prioritizing value for money and practicality over owning the latest flagship device. Budget smartphones offer competitive features at more affordable prices, making them attractive to a wide range of consumers.
2. How are traditional flagship manufacturers responding to the rise of budget models?
With budget models gaining traction, major players like Apple and Samsung are diversifying their product lines to include more affordable options such as the Galaxy A series and the iPhone SE. By catering to the demand for budget devices, these manufacturers aim to maintain their market share and appeal to a broader customer base.
3. What are the key challenges associated with the dominance of budget smartphones?
One of the challenges faced by manufacturers is balancing cost-cutting measures with maintaining quality and performance standards. The intense competition in the budget segment also puts pressure on profit margins, requiring companies to innovate and differentiate their offerings to stand out in a crowded market.
In terms of advantages, budget smartphones provide access to essential features such as decent camera quality, reliable performance, and long-lasting battery life at more accessible price points. They also allow consumers to stay connected and enjoy modern smartphone capabilities without breaking the bank.
However, a potential disadvantage of budget smartphones is the compromise on certain premium features found in flagship devices, such as advanced camera technology, high-resolution displays, or premium materials in the build. Additionally, budget models may not receive as timely software updates or long-term support compared to their flagship counterparts.
As the global smartphone market continues to evolve, the rise of budget models presents both opportunities and challenges for manufacturers looking to meet the diverse needs of consumers.
For more insights on the latest trends in the smartphone industry, visit Counterpoint Research, a leading source of market intelligence and analysis in the tech sector.
