Apple’s iPhone 16 has claimed the title of the world’s best-selling smartphone in the third quarter of 2025, securing four percent of all global handset sales and reaffirming Apple’s dominance in a highly competitive market.
The latest data shows that Apple and Samsung together filled all ten positions in the top-seller list, each contributing five models and jointly accounting for nearly one-fifth of global smartphone shipments.
Apple Sweeps the Top Four Positions
Apple took the top four spots with the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, and iPhone 16e. Analysts attribute this sweeping performance to strong demand across several key regions. Notably, India saw a boost in sales driven by festive season promotions, while consumer confidence in Japan rebounded after a sluggish start to the year. The consistency across multiple price points in the iPhone 16 lineup has allowed Apple to appeal to both premium buyers and mid-tier shoppers, who seek long-term software support and reliable hardware.
Another factor driving demand was the universal inclusion of 5G across all top devices for the first time in a third-quarter ranking. This shift signifies a growing expectation among consumers that 5G is now a standard feature, rather than an optional upgrade.
Samsung Holds Ground With Value-Driven A-Series
Samsung secured the fifth position with its Galaxy A16 5G and placed four more A-series and S-series models within the top ten. The company experienced strong uptake in regions like Latin America, Southeast Asia, and Africa, where price sensitivity is high. Here, consumers prioritize long battery life, dependable cameras, and long-term durability. The mid-range 5G models continue to be the backbone of Samsung’s performance, reinforcing the company’s strategy of balancing affordability with advanced features.
Will These Rankings Remain the Same for 2026?
The third-quarter results indicate that Apple and Samsung continue to function as the twin anchors of the global smartphone market. Apple’s high-end devices enjoy unmatched brand loyalty and strong ecosystem integration, while Samsung maintains broad appeal in emerging markets where value remains the primary purchase driver.
The report suggests that the presence of mid-price segment phones in the top ten best-selling smartphones is expected to remain strong. This is driven by the growing integration of generative AI features, which enhance competitiveness, deliver greater value to consumers, and bridge the user experience with flagship models.
Despite overall global shipment pressures, consumer appetite for feature-rich mobile devices remains robust. This trend suggests that both Apple and Samsung are likely to continue dominating the smartphone landscape in the upcoming months.
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