Despite falling sales, Apple still tops charts, iPhone 15 Pro Max highest-selling smartphone in 2024

iPhone 15 Pro Max. Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das

Apple is having one of its toughest times in the smartphone market. Despite that, considering the numerous allegations that it isn’t innovating enough, and that it is playing safe, the iPhone continues to be the most demanded smartphone.

In 2024, the smartphone market witnessed a flurry of new releases from leading brands, driving a notable 6 per cent increase in global smartphone shipments. Among the contenders, tech giants Apple and Samsung stand out, with their flagship devices dominating the sales charts.

A recent report by Counterpoint Research has revealed a significant shift in the smartphone landscape, with the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max claiming the top spot as the best-selling smartphone in the first quarter of the year. This marks a historic moment for Apple as usually, the top-end devices never take the top spot — rather it is the non-Pro, non-Max devices that are the highest selling. This year though, for the first time Apple’s Pro Max variant has secured the leading position outside of peak seasonal periods.

The dominance of Apple’s latest numbers is further underscored by the fact that of all four iPhone 15 models, along with the iPhone 14, are in the top 10 list of best-selling smartphones.

Samsung’s A and Series models also make appearances on the list, but it’s clear that Apple’s Pro lineup is capturing consumers’ attention, despite its supposed lacklustre sales in China.

A noteworthy trend highlighted in the report is the surging popularity of the Apple iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max, which collectively accounted for half of Apple’s total sales in the first quarter of 2024.

This marks a substantial increase from just 24 per cent in the same period four years ago, signalling a shifting preference towards premium features among consumers.

The allure of the iPhone 15 Pro series lies in its cutting-edge technology, including a telephoto camera, dynamic island display, and ultra-smooth ProMotion 120Hz display.

Apple’s use of aerospace-grade titanium in the chassis design further enhances the appeal of these premium devices.

One of the driving factors behind the preference for premium smartphones is the desire for longevity and relevance. With incremental improvements between generations becoming less pronounced, consumers are opting for high-end devices that promise durability and are ‘future-proof’.

As the smartphone market continues to evolve, manufacturers are increasingly focusing on innovation and differentiation to capture consumer interest. With the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max leading the charge, it’s evident that consumers are willing to invest in premium devices that offer cutting-edge features and lasting value.