The year 2023 would be the worst year of the decade in terms of smartphone sales worldwide. A manufacturer would take the opportunity to go number 1. It would be the first time in its history.
Since the beginning of 2023, reports on smartphone sales worldwide paint a rather pessimistic portrait of the market. They fall regularly, in particular because of inflation. And even if some manufacturers are doing better than others, the situation does not seem to be improving. Initiated in 2017, and despite the recovery in 2021, the decline is still relevant according to recent projections from Counterpoint Research.
2 years ago, sales reached 1.4 billion units approximately, but those of 2023 should not exceed 1.15 billiona decrease of almost 18% compared to 2021. If true, it would be the lowest figure recorded for 10 years. According to analysts, the cause is to be found on the side of Asia, “one of the main obstacles to positive growth”. The region records an escalating decline in emerging markets.
Smartphone sales would hit their lowest level in 10 years, this manufacturer would be the new number 1
Asian countries are not solely responsible for the decline in smartphone sales. In North America, the first quarter of 2023 is disappointing and “consumers are hesitant to upgrade their devices”. The United States registers with other countries their lowest mobile replacement rate. But this ambient gloom could well benefit Apple, who would pass for the first time in its history number 1 of smartphone manufacturers in terms of sales in the world.
The premium segment is doing better than the others, especially in China where Apple continues to gain market share. The upcoming release of the iPhone 15 should also help boost the Apple brand, which is only “a few days of sales” from first place, according to Jeff Fieldhack, director of research for the Americas. North at Counterpoint. It will still be necessary that the firm does not encounter production problems as was the case last year with the iPhone 14.