iPhone price hike under consideration by Apple, according to Wall Street Journal's report
Crafting a New Battle: Apple's Strategies to Topple Samsung's Smartphone Kingdom
Pictured above, a man gets a hands-on moment with the iPhone 16 Pro at an Apple store in Beijing, China, September 2024. REUTERS/YONHAP
In the ever-evolving smartphone market, a fierce rivalry between titans Apple and Samsung has been heating up. Apple is leaving no stone unturned to conquer Samsung’s territory, and here's how it's playing out:
1. Attacking Samsung's Low-Cost Territories
Apple is slashing prices, especially in key markets like China, offering older iPhone models at more affordably competitive rates. This move allows more consumers to access the premium Apple brand, giving it a fighting chance against Samsung’s extensive lineup of devices [2].
2. Budget-minded Apple for the Masses
In 2025, Apple is expanding its product lineup with budget-friendly models. The upcoming iPhone SE and the continued availability of older models cater to emerging markets and price-conscious customers. This strategy broadens Apple's appeal beyond high-end flagship buyers who are Samsung's stronghold [2][5].
3. Domination in US and Emerging Asia Pacific Markets
Apple has boosted its shipments to the US by almost 50%, solidifying its position in a competitive and traditional market. In addition, Apple is thriving in emerging Asia Pacific markets by meeting demand with competitive pricing and a diverse product offering [1][5].
4. Market Share Dominance Amid Flat Growth
Despite a flat global smartphone market (0.2% growth in Q1 2025), Apple registered significant growth (13%) with 55 million iPhones shipped, boosting its market share to 19%. Samsung's shipments remained steady year-over-year, indicating Apple's growth comes at Samsung’s expense [1][5].
5. Smart Launch Timing
The early-year launch of the iPhone 16e has given Apple a strategic edge, sustaining sales momentum while competitors normally face a sales slump during this period [5].
These strategies are expected to propel Apple to the the position of the largest smartphone maker globally by 2025 [2], turning the tables and making the battle between Apple and Samsung one for the history books.
The introduction of budget-friendly iPhones, such as the upcoming iPhone SE, aims to capitalize on the cost-conscious market and broaden Apple's reach [2][5]. Leveraging advanced technology in its product design and user experience, Apple position itself competitively against Samsung in the finance sector, as well [2][5]. Furthermore, Apple's lucrative partnerships with technology companies continue to underline its commitment to staying on the cutting edge of the industry, potentially enhancing its potential for growth [3][5].
