Apple set to overtake Samsung as world’s top smartphone maker — what's driving iPhone maker's surge?

Core Insights - Apple Inc is set to overtake Samsung Electronics and become the world's largest smartphone maker for the first time in over a decade, driven by the successful launch of the iPhone 17 series and a surge in consumer upgrades [1][4] Group 1: iPhone 17 Series Performance - The iPhone 17 models, launched in September, have achieved significant sales growth in both the United States and China, with double-digit year-over-year growth reported in both regions [2] - The iPhone 17 series, which includes four models, has attracted many consumers to upgrade their smartphones, particularly the iPhone Air, which is marketed as the world's thinnest iPhone [3] - The positive market reception for the iPhone 17 series is attributed to the replacement cycle reaching an inflection point, alongside rising sales of secondhand iPhones [5][6] Group 2: Market Dynamics - iPhone shipments are projected to increase by 10% in 2025, while Samsung's shipments are expected to grow by only 4.6%, indicating a significant shift in market leadership [4] - The global smartphone market is anticipated to grow by 3.3% in 2025, with Apple expected to capture a market share of 19.4%, marking its first return to the No. 1 position since 2011 [4] Group 3: Future Outlook - Analysts forecast that Apple will maintain its position as the top phone seller through 2029, with upcoming products like a foldable iPhone and a budget-friendly iPhone 17e expected to sustain growth [7] - Apple reported that sales are growing faster than anticipated, with the holiday quarter projected to approach a record $140 billion in revenue [8]