According to a report by Canalys, Apple ranked first in the global smartphone market in the fourth quarter of 2021, accounting for 22% of global smartphone shipments. The company overtook Samsung to take the top spot, witnessing strong sales despite supply chain issues. Other smartphone brands that we’re able to maintain their position on the list are Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo.
The high sales were mostly driven by the new iPhone 13 series, which Apple didn’t expect to attract customers’ attention after the company delayed selling the device.
Apple’s supply chain was affected after a decision to cut production due to a shortage of key parts but is now starting to recover, the report said, according to the sources cited. According to a recent Bloomberg report, Apple has reduced its iPhone 13 production plans by 10 million worldwide due to a shortage of chips. However, the company expects supply to improve in 2022.
Although Apple dominates the global smartphone shipments market, Samsung is the only company to witness growth compared to Q4 2020. The brand accounted for 20% of global smartphone shipments, up from 17% in 2020. Apple’s 23 market share declined 1% in 2021.
Meanwhile, according to the report, Xiaomi maintained its position and market share in 2021 as well. The Chinese company took third place on the list with 12% of handsets sold worldwide. According to the report, Oppo and Vivo took fourth and fifth places with 9% and 8% respectively.
Moreover, the report said that the global semiconductor shortage is a reality and has affected not only Apple but also other handset makers. Canalys reports that the issue won’t be resolved until at least the second half of 2022, and OEMs may continue to struggle with component shortages. Several brands are said to have started adjusting device specifications based on available materials.