In the first quarter of 2024, Apple experienced a notable decline in smartphone shipments, dropping by approximately 10%. This decline was attributed to heightened competition from Android smartphone manufacturers vying for the top position, as indicated by data from research firm IDC released on Sunday.
During January to March, global smartphone shipments saw a 7.8% increase, reaching 289.4 million units. Samsung emerged as the top phone maker with a market share of 20.8%, surpassing Apple.
Apple in the second spot with a market share of 17.3%
Apple, which had previously held the top position after a strong performance in the December quarter, now finds itself in the second spot with a market share of 17.3%. This shift occurred as Chinese brands like Huawei gained traction and market share.
Xiaomi, a leading smartphone manufacturer in China, held the third position with a market share of 14.1%. Samsung, based in South Korea, introduced its latest flagship smartphone lineup, the Galaxy S24 series, at the beginning of the year and shipped over 60 million phones during the period.
According to data from Counterpoint, global sales of Galaxy S24 smartphones surged by 8% compared to last year’s Galaxy S23 series within the first three weeks of availability.
In the first quarter, Apple shipped 50.1 million iPhones, a decrease from the 55.4 million units shipped during the same period last year, as reported by IDC.
Furthermore, Apple experienced a 2.1% decline in smartphone shipments in China during the final quarter of 2023 compared to the previous year.
The decline highlights the hurdles confronting the U.S. tech giant in its third-largest market, with certain Chinese entities and government bodies restricting the use of Apple devices among employees. This restriction echoes similar actions taken by the U.S. government against Chinese apps due to security concerns.
Based in Cupertino, California, Apple is set to host its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June. The event will feature updates to the software that powers iPhones, iPads, and other Apple devices.
Investors are keenly observing for advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) development at Apple, as the company has been relatively silent about integrating AI technology into its products. Earlier this year, Apple relinquished its title as the world’s most valuable company to Microsoft.
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