Apple’s Apple iPhone 16 has emerged as the world’s best-selling smartphone of 2025, according to a new industry report. The result may surprise Android users, but it highlights Apple’s continued dominance in the global market.
The data shows that Apple and Samsung once again led global smartphone sales. This marks the fourth consecutive year in which the two brands have dominated the top 10, accounting for 19% of total worldwide smartphone sales.
Apple secured seven positions in the top 10 ranking. Samsung claimed the remaining three spots. The results underscore the strong hold both companies maintain in the premium and mid-range segments.
The iPhone 17 series, launched in September, recorded 16% higher sales than its predecessor during its first full quarter. The strongest demand came from the United States, China, and Western Europe.
Among the lineup, the base iPhone 17 model delivered the highest growth. It outperformed all other devices and exceeded the iPhone 16’s launch performance in 2024.
iPhone 16 Tops List of World's Best-Selling Smartphones in 2025 https://t.co/GZaSXifFZ6 pic.twitter.com/fmDekEsuTI
— MacRumors.com (@MacRumors) January 29, 2026Analysts attributed the strong reception to key upgrades. These included a 120Hz display refresh rate, up from 60Hz on earlier base models, and 256GB of base storage, up from 128GB.
Affordable Models Boost Apple Sales
Apple also benefited from the success of the iPhone 16e, which launched in spring 2025. Priced at $599, the device offered a lower-cost entry into Apple’s ecosystem.
The model appealed to users seeking value without sacrificing performance. Industry observers say it helped Apple expand its reach beyond the premium tier.
The iPhone 16 was the best-selling smartphone of 2025! pic.twitter.com/VCfHFpRozy
— Apple Cycle (@theapplecycle) January 29, 2026Samsung Leads the Android Segment
Samsung remained a strong competitor throughout the year. The Galaxy A16 5G ranked fifth overall and became the best-selling Android smartphone of 2025.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra placed ninth on the list. This marked its second consecutive year among the global top 10 devices.
While Apple dominated overall rankings, Samsung’s performance confirmed its continued strength in both mass-market and flagship categories.
