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The IDC analysts have lauded the iPhone 17 series for its contribution to Apple’s record-setting year and its influence on the broader smartphone market in a recent report. However, the firm cautioned that challenges are anticipated next year, affecting both Apple and Android manufacturers. Notably, the iPhone producer will forgo a standard iPhone 18 model next year, and shortages in memory components will affect smartphone pricing in 2026.
Worldwide smartphone sales are expected to increase by 1.5% this year, reaching 1.25 billion units, as reported by IDC. This marks an adjustment from the earlier anticipated growth of 1% for the year. The report highlights “accelerated performance” from Apple during the holiday season as the primary factor for this rise. iPhone shipments are projected to upsurge by 6.1% in 2025 compared to the prior year, a significant jump from the previously recorded 3.9% growth cycle. In other terms, Apple is set to ship over 247 million iPhone units this year, paving the way for a landmark year in 2025. IDC’s senior research director Nabila Popal attributed this momentum to the “phenomenal success of its latest iPhone 17 series.”
