Smartphone sales up after pandemic dip
Global sales of smartphones recovered in the first quarter of 2021 after a steep decline last year. Sales to end users was up 26% in the first quarter of 2021, according statistics from research and marketing firm Gartner noting that the double digit growth partly is explained by the low numbers for the pandemic year 2020.
“The improvement in consumer outlook, sustained learning and working from home, along with pent-up demand from 2020 boosted sales of smartphones in the first quarter” , said Anshul Gupta, senior research director.
The top three global smartphone vendors maintained their respective positions in the first quarter of 2021: Samsung 76.6 million, Apple 58.6 million, Xiaomi 48.9 million. Samsung has a market share of 20.3%, Apple 15.5% and Xiaomi 12.9%.
“The launch of mid-priced smartphones, such as phones priced under USD 150, boosted Samsung’s unit sales globally. The early shipping of its flagship 5G smartphones added to the company’s smartphone sales growth”, Gartner said.
“Apple moved back into the second position in the first quarter of 2021, after securing the No.1 spot in the fourth quarter 2020. The launch of its first ever 5G iPhone led to continued demand in 2021. 5G will continue to be the major growth driver for Apple in 2021. Device upgrades will fuel demand for Apple’s flagship phone throughout the year,” Gupta said.
Gartner said the global chip shortage may in coming quarters lead to increase in the average selling price of smartphones globally.
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