[Asia Economy Reporter Eunmo Koo] Apple has solidified its position as the number one in the premium smartphone market by surpassing a majority market share. However, there are also forecasts that the situation in the second half of the year could change slightly as Samsung Electronics is creating a stir in the market with its new foldable phones.
According to global market research firm Counterpoint Research on the 15th (local time), Apple's share of the global premium smartphone market priced at $400 (approximately 470,000 KRW) or more in the second quarter of this year was 57%. This is a 9 percentage point increase compared to the same period last year (48%).
Counterpoint Research analyzed that Apple's increase in market share was due to capturing the share lost by Huawei. Huawei's market share in the second quarter last year was 17%, but it sharply declined to 6% this year. On the other hand, Huawei's slump did not significantly benefit Samsung Electronics. Samsung's share in this segment in the second quarter was 17%, which is a 5 percentage point decrease compared to the same period last year (22%).
As of the second quarter of this year, Apple maintains the leading position in the premium phone market worldwide, including China, while Samsung Electronics ranks second in most regions except China.
However, it is forecasted that the current structure may change somewhat in the second half of the year. Counterpoint Research analyzed, "With Samsung Electronics' new foldable phones, the Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip3, being released at more affordable prices than before, there is a possibility that market share will increase in the second half of the year."
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