The iPhone 16 led global smartphone sales in the first quarter of 2025, as indicated by fresh data from Counterpoint Research. This was the first occurrence since 2022 that a standard iPhone model has topped global sales during this timeframe.
## iPhone 16e surpasses the SE’s performance
Counterpoint’s findings also reveal that Apple claimed five out of the top ten positions in Q1, maintaining a trend observed over the last five March quarters. In contrast, Samsung occupied four spots, while Xiaomi was the sole other brand to feature on the list.
Although the Pro models retained their typical strength, it was the fundamental iPhone 16 that generated the majority of sales, particularly in Japan and throughout the Middle East and Africa. Counterpoint attributes the increase in Japan to enhanced economic conditions and revised carrier subsidy guidelines that benefited Apple.
According to today’s report, the iPhone 16 Pro Max and 16 Pro secured the second and third positions, respectively. These models continue to encounter challenges in China, where recent government incentives for devices priced under CNY 6,000 (around $833) have aided local OEMs like Huawei in gaining traction.
The iPhone 16e, Apple’s new budget model, has quickly entered the rankings. March 2025 marked its first complete month of availability, and it achieved sixth place globally. With an expanded feature set and a more contemporary design, analysts anticipate it will surpass its predecessor by a significant margin over the coming year.
## Samsung loses one model, Redmi maintains position
On the Samsung front, the Galaxy S25 Ultra dropped to seventh place in the quarter, falling two spots from the S24 Ultra in Q1 2024. The report indicates that the decline was primarily due to a reduced selling timeframe, as the S25 lineup debuted later in the quarter.
At the same time, the Galaxy A16 5G secured fifth place overall, fueled by strong demand in North America, Latin America, and the Asia-Pacific region. Additionally, the Galaxy A06, Samsung’s budget model, climbed four positions in the global top 10, owing to a significant rise in demand for smartphones priced under $100.
This low-end segment was the fastest-expanding part of the market in Q1, making up nearly 20% of total global smartphone sales. Counterpoint attributes this growth to the easing of supply chain issues and a rebound in demand across crucial emerging markets.
The only non-Apple or Samsung device in the top 10 originated from Xiaomi. The Redmi 14C 4G experienced a 43% year-over-year increase, benefiting from strong demand in the Middle East and Africa, along with Latin America. Similar to Xiaomi’s recent success in wearables, the achievements of the 14C highlight the company’s capability to offer valuable features at highly competitive prices.
