In 2024, about a quarter of smartphones sold worldwide carried an average price of six hundred dollars or more, underscoring a steady premiumization in the mobile market. This trend has been highlighted in recent market assessments by CR and mirrors longer-term shifts in consumer buying power and expectations for device capabilities.
Since 2020, the premium smartphone segment has grown from roughly 15 percent to around 25 percent of overall sales. Apple has remained the leading force in this space, with its share rising from about 67 percent to roughly 72 percent in the most recent year. Samsung, Huawei, Xiaomi, and Google round out the top tier, forming a recognizable lineup of brands that define the premium category for many buyers in North America and beyond.
The portion of smartphones priced near one thousand dollars has surged by more than forty percent, signaling a persistent appetite for high-end features among early adopters. The premium segment has driven price expectations as the global average for flagship devices pushes past the nine hundred dollar mark for the iPhone, a milestone that reflects broader consumer willingness to invest in advanced hardware and software experiences.
The United States and China continue to be the largest markets for premium smartphones, accounting for about a quarter and a quarter of sales respectively. India has shown notable growth since 2020 as local consumers seek out more brand choices and premium options, expanding the market footprint beyond the traditional leaders.
Observers expect the premium trend to continue, though the pace of growth may moderate as developing regions broaden their price ranges and feature expectations. Counterpoint Research notes that subsidies programs in China are likely to further expand the premium segment there, reinforcing regional dynamics that influence global dynamics.
Premium devices attract more buyers thanks to stronger processors, enhanced cameras, brighter displays, and advanced AI capabilities. Manufacturers justify higher prices by delivering longer software support and durable hardware. With several years of software updates now common for flagship devices, consumers gain extended value and protection against rapid obsolescence.
In earlier reviews, analysts highlighted attractive options under ten thousand rubles, demonstrating that value remains a consideration even within the premium-aware market landscape. The ongoing evolution of pricing, updates, and brand strategies continues to shape choices for consumers across the United States, Canada, and other key markets.