Apple is set to achieve a remarkable milestone in 2025, with projections indicating the shipment of 247.4 million iPhones. This forecast, released by research firm IDC, highlights the growing demand for the iPhone 17 series, especially in the Chinese market. According to analysts cited in the report, the outlook is promising.
IDC Forecasts Smartphone Shipment Growth
According to IDC, the anticipated shipment figure represents a 6% increase from the previous year, surpassing the previous record of 236 million units established in 2021. The surge in demand in China is a key driver of this growth, with shipments in the region expected to rise by 17% in the last quarter of 2025.
Revised Growth Predictions for China's Smartphone Market
This optimistic outlook has prompted IDC to adjust its forecast for the overall smartphone market in China, now predicting a 3% growth instead of a previously expected 1% decline. Analysts are also hopeful that Apple may surpass Samsung in smartphone shipments for the first time in 14 years. Potential delays in the iPhone 18 release could pose challenges for future shipment figures.
China has set a 5% GDP growth target for 2026, maintaining the same figure as this year, amid ongoing economic challenges. This contrasts with Apple's projected iPhone shipment growth, highlighting differing trends in technology and economic policy. For more details, see China's GDP target.
