Record Month for Apple: April and May 2025
Apple achieved the highest market share in smartphone sales since the COVID-19 pandemic in April and May 2025. According to preliminary data from the “Global Monthly Smartphone Sales Report” by Counterpoint Research, iPhone sales in these two months increased by approximately 15 percent compared to the same period last year, marking the highest level ever.
Factors for Success
This growth was significantly driven by two factors: on the one hand, concerns about potential U.S. tariffs that affected demand for Apple products, and on the other hand, subsidies in China that further boosted sales. The rising demand was evident in both the U.S. and Chinese markets and suggests that AI features like Siri currently do not play a decisive role for many buyers.
Market Shares in the First Quarter of 2025
In the first quarter of 2025, Apple’s global market share was about 19.5 percent, with a growth of approximately 11.6 percent compared to the previous year. This places Apple just behind Samsung (20.1 percent) and well ahead of Xiaomi (13.9 percent). Overall, a strong recovery and a comeback for Apple in the global smartphone market is evident following pandemic-related downturns.
Conclusion
In summary:
- Highest market share in smartphone sales since the pandemic in April/May 2025
- Sales increase of about 15 percent compared to the previous year in these months
- Driven by U.S. tariff concerns and Chinese subsidies
- Strong demand particularly in the U.S. and China
- AI features currently do not play a significant role in purchase decisions
This development underscores Apple’s successful positioning despite an increasingly competitive market.