The iPhone 17 became the world’s best-selling smartphone in the first quarter of 2026, showing a big change in the market. Apple’s latest base model even outsold its premium version. Counterpoint Research’s Global Handset Model Sales Tracker for Q1 2026 reports that the iPhone 17 led global shipments and overtook the iPhone 17 Pro Max, which many had expected to be the top seller.
The most surprising thing about the tracker was that iPhone 17 dethroned iPhone 17 Pro Max to claim the top spot. This reflects that users are now shifting towards affordable flagship phones as they get strong performance at a competitive price. The standard iPhone 17 offers a blend of balanced price and features, attracting a wider range of buyers.
Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy A07 4G was ranked as the best-selling Android phone worldwide. This device claimed the top spot, riding on the success in emerging markets. Apart from this, its low price and dependable features also helped it in topping the charts.
Balanced features are credited with the success of the iPhone 17. Apple’s latest chip for fast, efficient performance, along with better camera, longer battery life, and a sleek design that matches Apple’s premium look, added to its success. Apart from this, a lot of users liked how easily the iPhone 17 works with other Apple products.
According to Counterpoint Research’s Global Handset Model Sales Tracker in Q1 2026, Apple and Samsung dominated the top 10 best-selling phones list. While iPhone 17 claimed the top spot, iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone 17 Pro were at the second and third spots, respectively. Apart from this, iPhone 16 was in sixth place on the list.
Meanwhile, Samsung dominated the list, with five of its devices in the top 10. The Samsung Galaxy A07 4G was jointly placed at the third spot with iPhone 17 Pro, followed by the Galaxy A17 5G. The Galaxy A56, Galaxy A36, and the Galaxy A17 4G were at the seventh, eighth and ninth spot, respectively.
Redmi A5 was the only other brand to appear on the tracker at the 10th spot.
Many things helped the iPhone 17 succeed. Its lower price compared to Pro models made it more affordable for more people. It also delivered top-level performance without major trade-offs. Apple’s strong brand and global stores drove sales, and rising demand in emerging markets further boosted its success.
Counterpoint Research’s Global Handset Model Sales Tracker in Q1 2026 shows that users are going for smartphones that offer good value. While premium models are still grabbing the attention, most buyers are looking for a balance between price and performance.
The iPhone 17 emerged as the best-selling smartphone worldwide in the first quarter of 2026.
The Samsung Galaxy A07 4G was the highest-selling Android smartphone globally during the same period.
Yes, the iPhone 17 surpassed the iPhone 17 Pro Max to claim the top position in global sales.
Its competitive pricing, strong performance, improved features, and Apple’s brand appeal contributed to its widespread success.
https://www.mymobileindia.com/best-selling-mobile-phones-history/
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