Global Smartphone Shipments See Modest Growth in Q2 2025, Samsung Retains Lead
Global smartphone shipments recorded a slight 1% year-over-year increase in the second quarter of 2025, according to the latest report by the International Data Corporation (IDC). The period from April to June remained challenging for the mobile industry, with global demand impacted by continued economic pressure.
Macroeconomic Challenges Continue
Fluctuating tariffs, unstable currencies, rising inflation, and unemployment have affected consumer spending in several regions. Demand in China remained particularly weak, which further affected the industry’s overall growth outlook.
Samsung Maintains Market Leadership
Samsung led global shipments with approximately 58 million units, securing a 19.7% market share. The company’s growth was supported by strong demand for its newly launched Galaxy A36 and A56 models, which proved popular among consumers in various markets.
Apple Comes in Second
Apple followed with 46.4 million units shipped, claiming a 15.7% share. While the brand saw strong growth in emerging markets, it experienced a slight 1% dip in China, despite being the best-selling smartphone brand during the 618 shopping festival.
Top Chinese Brands See Mixed Results
Xiaomi ranked third globally, with 42.5 million units shipped and a 14.4% share, reflecting a small 0.6% increase from the previous year. Vivo came in fourth with 27.1 million units (9.2%), while Transsion — the company behind Infinix, Tecno, and itel — rounded out the top five with 25.1 million units, capturing 8.5% of the global market.
Outlook Shows Signs of Recovery
Despite economic headwinds, the modest growth in shipments points to early signs of a potential market recovery. Industry experts suggest that as global financial conditions stabilize, consumer confidence is likely to return, paving the way for a stronger second half of the year.
