Pixel 9 helps Google set a new sales record

Market research firm Counterpoint today announced that global smartphone sales increased 2 percent year-over-year in the third quarter of 2024. This is notable as it was the first time since 2018 that growth was recorded in the third quarter of a year.

Apart from Samsung and Oppo, all top 5 companies reported an increase in sales. Nevertheless, Samsung remained at the top of the sales charts with a market share of 19 percent. High demand for the mid-range A-series and Galaxy S24 family helped the company maintain its dominance. The latest foldable phones, on the other hand, are not doing well.

With 16 percent of the pie, Apple was the second largest player in the third quarter. In September after the launch of the iPhone 16, it reached the number one spot.

Apple and Samsung reported flat sales in the third quarter of 2024. | Image source: Counterpoint

Xiaomi increased its sales by 8 percent and had a market share of 14 percent. It also briefly displaced Apple as the second-largest seller in August. Oppo saw a 3 percent decline in sales but managed to maintain its 9 percent market share. Vivo reported a 10 percent increase in sales and had a 9 percent market share.

Three companies not in the top five reported significant growth in the quarter. Shipments of Motorola and Huawei cell phones increased by an incredible 30 percent.

Google sold more phones than in any previous quarter, likely helped by the Pixel 9 family and the Pixel 8a.

Although Counterpoint hasn't disclosed the numbers for Google, the fact that it was its best quarter ever in terms of shipping volume is enough evidence that the company is on the right track with its latest releases.

This was the fourth consecutive quarter of growth, suggesting the market is finally emerging from the pandemic-induced doldrums. However, growth was slower than previous quarters as consumers kept their phones longer.

Artificial intelligence has definitely played a role, and the report notes that one in four consumers this year were willing to spend more than $600 on a phone with generative AI features.

With the iPhone 16 With sales expected to remain stable in the coming months, the company could overtake Samsung as the largest smartphone seller in the current quarter.

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