Published on October 18, 2023, 8:07 pm
Image source: Fox News
TLDR: While the iPhone is popular among teenagers and has seen an increase in market share during the COVID-19 pandemic, Android still dominates the overall usage in the US smartphone market. Apple's position as the second most popular choice has remained consistent, with iOS accounting for 39% of sales. Factors such as carrier partnerships, competitors exiting the market, and Apple's ability to persuade Android users to switch have contributed to its market share. However, fluctuations occur during notable releases or events. Despite Android's larger market share, the iPhone remains a popular choice with ongoing competition between iOS and Android.
Although the iPhone is dominant in certain areas of the US smartphone market, it still lags behind Android in terms of overall usage. Recent statistics suggest that the iPhone is the preferred choice among teenagers, with 87% currently owning one and 88% planning to select it as their next phone. However, a study by Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP) reveals that Apple’s position in the US smartphone market has remained consistent, holding onto its spot as the second most popular choice.
Over the past decade, there has been a trend of Android users switching to iPhones. This can be attributed to the fact that only iPhones can run iOS, while Android is available on phones from various manufacturers. In terms of sales, iOS accounted for 39% during the annual period ending in September 2023. This challenges the notion of iPhone dominance and provides a more balanced view of Apple’s standing in the competitive landscape.
Market share for Apple has fluctuated over the years but has generally remained within a relatively narrow range of 37% to 46% over the past five years. Interestingly, iOS experienced its highest market share at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and has seen a slight increase to 39% in 2023, suggesting a reversal of previous downward trends.
Several factors have contributed to these market share trends. In its early years, Apple expanded its carrier partnerships beyond its initial exclusive agreement with AT&T, gaining market share as a result. Additionally, competitors like Blackberry and Windows phones exiting the market helped solidify the duopoly between iOS and Android in the US. While both platforms have maintained relatively consistent market shares since then, Apple has been more successful in convincing Android users to switch to iPhones.
It should be noted that fluctuations often occur during notable releases such as new iterations of iPhones or significant events. Many iPhone users tend to hold onto their devices for longer periods compared to users of cheaper Android handsets, which may contribute to the difference in market share between the two platforms.
Overall, while Android has a larger market share in terms of smartphone sales in the US, Apple’s iPhone continues to hold its ground and remains a popular choice among users. The competition between iOS and Android is ongoing, with each platform offering its own unique features and user experience. As technology evolves and new innovations are introduced, it will be interesting to see how the landscape of the US smartphone market continues to evolve.
Original article posted by Fox News
