Despite rising U.S. inflation, smartphone shipments climbed in Q1 2022. Canalys, a worldwide technology market analyst organisation, reports that shipments climbed nearly 4% over last year. With this gain, Apple outsold its competitors in the U.S.
Apple’s 51% market share in North America is up 19% from last year. Considerable iPhone 13 sales helped Apple achieve this. Apple relocated inventory to North America due to international market uncertainty, Canalys says. By completing pre-orders, it gained market share. Also, it predicts that Apple’s iPhone SE, with its more affordable options, has significant potential.
Despite its diverse product offering, Samsung increased its market share to 27%. Samsung’s Galaxy S range and foldable devices, especially the Galaxy Z Flip 3, have enjoyed high sales, according to Canalys. Lenovo replaces LG, which closed its smartphone business last year.
Lenovo entered the cheap and mid-range segments with prepaid devices. Despite recent efforts, Google’s Pixel devices barely account for 3% of the market. However, the upcoming Pixel 7 series, Pixel 6a, Pixel Watch, and Pixel Buds Pro could change that, according to Canalys.
Commenting on the report, Canalys Analyst Brian Lynch said:
Heavy discounting and high trade-in values are being used to lure in and retain customers for the region’s biggest telcos, easing pressure on the high-end smartphone market. Supply will remain a key bottleneck for the top vendors in the upcoming quarter, but North America will continue to be a priority and is likely to maintain healthy supply levels. The North American market is well placed to avoid any significant volatility in shipments despite the uncertain outlook of its economy.