Sales of 5G smartphones are exploding around the world. Thanks to the latest bestsellers from Apple and Samsung, sales of 5G-compatible phones have exceeded sales of devices that only have a 4G connection. It’s a first.
According to figures published by Counterpoint, sales of 5G smartphones continue to increase worldwide. For the first time, manufacturers have sold more phones compatible with 5G than mobiles limited to 4G. In January 2022, 51% of devices sold worldwide were indeed 5G compatible, notes Counterpoint.
The rise of 5G smartphones is especially visible in China. During the first month of the year, 84% of phones sold on the Chinese market were 5G compatible. “Pressure for 5G from Chinese telecom operators, combined with manufacturers’ desire to provide consumers with 5G smartphones at competitive prices, has enabled this growth”explains the Counterpoint report.
iPhones boost 5G smartphone sales
The increase in sales of 5G phones is notably due to the success of the iPhone. For the record, Apple launched the first compatible iPhones at the end of 2020. These were the iPhone 12. The range has met with colossal success in the world despite the shortage of computer chips.
The standard iPhone 12 has also established itself as the most purchased smartphone on the global market in 2021. More affordable, the iPhone 12 is placed just ahead of the iPhone 12 Pro Max and the iPhone 12 Pro . At the end of 2021, Apple marketed a new range of 5G devices, the iPhone 13, which helped to further boost sales of compatible terminals. “There is an immense and continuous demand for an upgrade to 5G among iOS users”, points out Counterpoint. The release of the iPhone SE 5G should help Apple meet the strong demand.
The rise of 5G terminals is also due to the appearance of compatible Android smartphones at a bargain price. Thanks to the mid-range and entry-level chips offered by Qualcomm and Mediatek, many brands have been able to lower the prices of 5G phones.
In this area, Samsung has established itself among the market leaders thanks to the success of the Galaxy A range. The Galaxy A12, an affordable smartphone compatible with 5G, was also illustrated as the best-selling Android phone in the world last year. At last count, more than 50% of Samsung smartphones sold last year were Galaxy A.
