(Reuters) – Smartphone deliveries from Apple and Samsung declined in the fourth quarter of last year around the world as they face intense competition from Chinese companies including Xiaomi, according to preliminary data from the International Data Corporation (IDC).
The global smartphone market has rebounded strongly after two years of decline, with Chinese companies rapidly expanding their market share through aggressive growth in low-cost devices and a strong focus on the local market.
“While we remain optimistic about continued growth into 2025, the threat of new and higher tariffs from the new US administration has heightened uncertainty across the industry,” said Nabila Popal, senior director of global client device research at IDC.
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Apple’s global shipments fell 4.1% to 76.9 million units in the fourth quarter, while Samsung’s shipments fell 2.7% to 51.7 million units, as competition intensified from Chinese companies such as Xiaomi, Oppo and Honor, IDC reported.
In 2024, the iPhone maker led the global smartphone market with an 18.7% share, followed by Samsung, with 18%, and Xiaomi, from China, with 13.6%.
However, among the top five smartphone brands last year, Apple’s shipments fell by 0.9% and Samsung’s by 1.4%, while Xiaomi showed the fastest growth with a 15.4% increase. .
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Chinese handset makers shipped 56% of global smartphones in the fourth quarter, marking the highest combined volume ever recorded in one quarter, as they expanded their presence in Europe and Africa, driven by their low- and mid-value devices.
“Despite continued growth in several regions, we have seen a decrease in demand for foldable devices in the market despite increased promotions and marketing,” said Anthony Scarsella, director of consumer device research at IDC.
Smartphone makers have started to reduce spending on research and design of foldable smartphones as consumer interest remains stable, Scarsella said.
