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The year 2024 promises to be prosperous for the smartphone sector thanks to a long-awaited recovery. The figures speak for themselves: with a 5% increase in sales during the third quarter, this is the fourth consecutive quarter that this market has shown positive growth. One of the major players, Samsung, continues to dominate the scene with a market share of 18%, closely matched by Apple, while Xiaomi, Oppo and Vivo follow in rank with 14%, 9%, and 9% respectively. .
Applethe Californian giant, is experiencing particularly interesting dynamics this year. As it closes in on the top spot with its unprecedented third-quarter sales volume, the unexpected drop in production of l’iPhone 16 raised questions. In 2023, the manufacturer sold 234.6 million iPhones, compared to 226.3 million in 2022, recording an increase of 3.7%. This progression is strongly attributed to record sales in the last quarter of the year with more than 80 million units sold.
Innovations and challenges for iPhone 16
The latest, the iPhone 16 and its Pro version, benefit from cutting-edge technologies with the integration of the A18 processor. This new component guarantees increased power and energy efficiency. Among the attractive features, we can mention:
- A 48MP Fusion sensor for ever sharper photos
- 5x telephoto zoom to capture distant details
- Capturing space photos for captivating shots
With these innovations, Apple also promises to advance visual intelligence, in addition to significant improvements in audio processing. However, this feat is not without its challenges, including an adaptation by consumers who tend to extend the life of their phone to around 36 months, before considering a renewal, generally by skipping a generation.
The release of these new models also fuels another booming sector: the reconditioned market. The tendency of consumers to resell their old models to acquire new ones encourages multiple transactions around the iPhone 12, 13 and 14, leading to a gradual drop in prices.
Constrictions et visions futures
Manufacturers also face an increasingly demanding environment. Legal constraints linked to eco-design are emerging, supported by European institutions which ensure eco-responsibility. In this momentum of renewal, technological innovation becomes not only an asset but a requirement to respond to these new measures.
This wind of recovery, if it is essential for everyone, will benefit in particular Apple which is targeting new horizons with its flagship product Apple Intelligence. This breakthrough could prove decisive in expanding the brand's geographic and technological reach.
New consumer orientations
Buyer behavior is evolving, and this change is palpable in perception and the relationship with the product. Consumers are now looking beyond physical standards to values such as sustainability and optimization. This is reflected in particular by a preference for durable mobiles, like the new requirements put forward by the European Commission and other regulatory bodies.
Thus, elements which were once simple improvements, become decisive criteria for the purchase of a smartphone. Energy performance, the ethics of sourcing materials, or even the possibility of software updating over several years are now considerations that directly influence buyers' decisions.
- A green ecosystem favored by reconditioning policies
- Transition to low-cost but sustainable technologies
In view of the promising prospects and challenges to be met, the smartphone market is proving to be a land of innovation and opportunities for manufacturers, consumers and regulators. The coming months will be decisive in determining the synthesis between technological advances and environmental requirements.
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