iPhone 15 Pro Max Reigns Supreme: World's Best-Selling Smartphone in H1 2024

The first half of 2024 saw a fierce battle for smartphone dominance, with the iPhone 15 Pro Max emerging as the victor. According to a recent report by global research firm Omdia, the premium Apple model shipped an impressive 21.8 million units, solidifying its position as the world's best-selling smartphone. This success marks a continuation of the iPhone 14 Pro Max's dominance, showcasing the enduring appeal of Apple's flagship devices.

Apple and Samsung Dominate the Top 10

Apple and Samsung's dominance is undeniable, occupying a significant portion of the top 10 list. The standard iPhone 15 secures second place with 17.8 million units shipped, followed closely by the Samsung Galaxy A15 with 17.3 million units.

Other Apple models making the list include the iPhone 15 Pro in fourth place (16.9 million units) and the iPhone 13 in sixth place (12.5 million units). The enduring popularity of the iPhone 13, a model released over three years ago, speaks volumes about its appeal to consumers.

Samsung also claims two more spots in the top 10. The Galaxy S24 Ultra, with 12.6 million units shipped, occupies the fifth position.

The only Chinese vendor in the top 10 is Xiaomi, with its Redmi 13C model securing eighth place (11.8 million units). This marks Xiaomi's return to the list after a brief absence in 2023.

Smartphone Shipments: A Mixed Outlook

While the first half of 2024 saw significant growth in smartphone shipments, Omdia predicts a decline in the second half. This downward trend is attributed to the ongoing economic instability.

Jusy Hong, Senior Research Manager at Omdia, explains that the demand for low-end smartphones is expected to slow down as pent-up demand from the pandemic subsides. Similarly, the mid-range market is not anticipated to see significant growth.

However, the high-end segment is expected to continue its growth trajectory. This is driven by a stable replacement cycle and emerging markets' increasing demand for premium devices. Hong also highlights generative AI as a potential driver of demand for high-end phones, although its influence is unlikely to be substantial enough to propel overall shipment growth.

What smartphone model secured the top spot in global smartphone sales in the first half of 2024?

The iPhone 15 Pro Max emerged as the world's best-selling smartphone in the first half of 2024, according to a recent report by global research firm Omdia. The model shipped a staggering 21.8 million units, successfully defending the dominance of its predecessor, the iPhone 14 Pro Max.

Which company holds the most spots in the top 10 best-selling smartphone list?

Apple and Samsung's dominance is evident in the top 10 list. The standard iPhone 15 secured second place with 17.8 million units shipped, followed by the Samsung Galaxy A15 with 17.3 million units.

What is the predicted trend for smartphone shipments in the second half of 2024?

While smartphone shipments saw significant growth in the first half of 2024, Omdia predicts a decline in the second half. This is due to the ongoing economic instability.

What is the expected impact of generative AI on the smartphone market?

Hong also mentioned that generative AI could be a driver of demand for high-end phones, although its influence won't be enough to propel overall shipment growth.

The Future of Smartphone Demand

The smartphone market in 2024 is characterized by a complex interplay of factors. While economic challenges may dampen demand in the lower and mid-range segments, the high-end market is expected to remain resilient. The rise of generative AI could also play a role in driving demand for premium smartphones, offering new functionalities and experiences. As we move into the second half of the year, it will be interesting to observe how these trends unfold and shape the future of the smartphone industry.