**Apple’s Expansion in Premium Smartphone Sales: Findings from Counterpoint Research**
A recent analysis by Counterpoint Research points out India and China as crucial markets propelling Apple’s 3% year-over-year rise in global premium smartphone sales in the first half of 2025, even with a drop in market share. This article explores the essential conclusions of the analysis and what they mean for Apple and its rivals.
### Summary of Sales Performance
In the first half of 2025, the global premium smartphone market achieved its best performance yet, showcasing an 8% rise in sales year-over-year. Apple retained a leading role, seizing 62% of the market share and recording a 3% sales increase. Samsung trailed with a 20% market share and a 7% sales growth. However, despite this sales increase, Apple’s market share contracted by 3%, largely due to quicker growth among rivals such as Google, Xiaomi, and Huawei.
### Regional Contributions to Growth
The analysis underscores the vital roles played by several countries in the premium smartphone sector, with the top 10 markets comprising nearly 80% of overall sales. India notably distinguished itself as the fastest-growing market, posting an impressive 37% year-over-year increase. This rise was linked to Apple’s robust performance in the area, supported by accessible financing options that widened the market for premium devices. On the other hand, although China continues to be the largest premium smartphone market, it was the main contributor to total growth in actual sales volume.
### Competitive Landscape
Despite Apple’s attempts to boost its iPhone sales in China, the company encountered difficulties in preserving its market share against local competitors such as Huawei and Xiaomi, which enjoy a loyal customer following and a strong offline presence. Google also made a noteworthy resurgence, reporting a 105% growth year-over-year, predominantly fueled by the success of its Pixel 9 smartphone.
### Technological Trends
The analysis also emphasizes significant developments in the premium smartphone sector. Devices featuring generative AI capabilities made up more than 80% of premium smartphone sales, reflecting a strong consumer inclination toward advanced technology. Furthermore, while foldable smartphones continue to occupy a niche market, they are anticipated to increase, particularly with Apple’s expected debut in this category.
### Conclusion
Apple’s performance in the premium smartphone sector during the first half of 2025 highlights the significance of strategic growth in crucial regions like India and China. While the company remains a sales leader, the competitive landscape is changing, with new brands gaining ground. As technology trends evolve towards AI and innovative designs, Apple and its competitors must adapt to sustain their market positions.
