U.S. smartphone consumer sales (sell-out) declined 2% year-over-year (YoY) in quarter one (Q1) of 2025, according to Counterpoint’s Monthly US Channel Share Smartphone Tracker.
The research group says this decline was primarily due to weakening sales in the premium segment ($800 and above) as Apple’s flagship sales fell YoY as well, but this was offset by sales of the iPhone 16e.
The iPhone 16e launch, combined with weakness from Samsung flagships, allowed Apple to increase its share within US postpaid channels, Counterpoint notes. What’s more, Apple’s share of sell-out at the Big 3 carriers increased to 72% in Q1 2025 from 70% in Q1 2024, adds the research group.
Total device sales by the Big 3 carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon) stayed relatively flat YoY. While AT&T and T-Mobile’s smartphone sales increased YoY (5% and 2%, respectively), thanks to improved upgrade rates, Verizon’s declining upgrade rate in Q1 offset those gains (-6% YoY). Some carriers reported an increase in demand in late March and April due to the US government’s latest move to impose tariffs, as customers moved to purchase products before possible price increases, reports Counterpoint.
I hope you’ll help support Apple World Today by becoming a patron. Patreon pricing ranges from $2 to $10 a month. Thanks in advance for your support.
