Driven by Apple iPhone 12 and newer models, total global sales of 5G smartphones have now exceeded 2 billion units. iPhone 12 is Apple's first 5G smartphone, and although it was launched late in October 2020, its high sales made it the most popular 5G phone in the world within two weeks. According to Counterpoint Research, it immediately dominated 5G sales and also promoted the development of the 5G market.
The latest data from Counterpoint shows that global 5G sales have now exceeded 2 billion, a year faster than 4G sales.
"The iPhone 12 series is the first iPhone phone to support 5G, and its launch has greatly accelerated the popularity of 5G," the research company said. "In the fourth quarter of 2020, global 5G single-quarter shipments exceeded 100 million units for the first time. This momentum continues, with shipments in the fourth quarter of 2023 setting a new record, reaching 200 million units in a single quarter."
The report goes on to point out that Apple and Samsung are the most popular 5G brands, with combined sales of the two companies reaching 1 billion units. Counterpoint pointed out that the price gap between 4G and 5G components is narrowing, allowing lower-priced models to use 5G technology, which has greatly benefited major Chinese brands.
In China, Japan, the United States and most European countries, more than 80% of smartphones shipped in 2023 will be 5G phones. Counterpoint said that 40 countries have a 5G penetration rate of 50% or more, and only 13 countries, including Nigeria and Paraguay, have 5G sales below 20%.
However, sales are not necessarily tied to countries where 5G is available or widespread. Counterpoint said: "Even in markets where 5G networks are not yet fully operational, consumers will choose 5G smartphones to protect their future investments."
All of Apple's iPhones use 5G modems made by Qualcomm. However, Apple has been working on developing its own 5G baseband chips for years, although the project has reportedly encountered difficulties.