iPhone 16 Dominates Global Smartphone Sales in Q3 2025
Overall Market Performance
Apple’s iPhone 16 was the world’s best‑selling smartphone in the third quarter of 2025, according to new data from Counterpoint Research. This marks a significant achievement for the device, which continues to attract users even in its second year on the market.
Factors Behind iPhone 16 Popularity
The sustained popularity of the iPhone 16 can be attributed to several factors. Many users are upgrading from older iPhone models, and expanded carrier promotions in developed markets have made the device more accessible. Additionally, the standard iPhone configuration remains highly appealing in regions where ultra‑premium models are less common.
Rise of the iPhone 17 Lineup
While the iPhone 16 maintained its leadership position, the iPhone 17 Pro Max also made waves by entering the quarterly global top‑10 list and becoming the best‑selling smartphone in September 2025. Despite limited availability towards the end of the quarter, demand for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max was strong. This is partly due to users who purchased iPhones during the COVID‑19 period and are now looking for major upgrades. New features such as a 48‑megapixel telephoto camera with 8× optical zoom and a vapor‑chamber cooling system have contributed to this demand.
Competitors and the Foldable Surge
In contrast, Samsung increased its presence in the top‑10 list with five positions, all from the Galaxy A series. The global foldable smartphone sector also saw significant growth, with a 14% year‑over‑year increase in shipments. Samsung’s Galaxy Z 7 series, particularly the Galaxy Z Fold 7, received strong consumer response due to its slimmer design, reduced crease visibility, and improved hinge mechanism.
Apple has not yet entered the foldable smartphone market, but rumors suggest the company may debut a foldable iPhone as soon as next year. Meanwhile, Apple intensified its promotional activity in response to early and aggressive discounts on Google’s Pixel 10, ultimately overtaking Google in the U.S. market.
Future Outlook
Apple’s strong performance in Q3 2025 highlights the company’s continued dominance in the smartphone market. With the success of the iPhone 16 and the growing demand for the iPhone 17 lineup, Apple is well‑positioned to maintain its leadership. However, the rise of foldable smartphones and competitive promotions from rivals like Google and Samsung suggest that the market remains dynamic and highly competitive.
