Analytic firm Counterpoint has released a detailed snapshot of the top 10 best-selling smartphones for the third quarter of 2023, drawing on data reported by the Chinese edition of MyDrivers. The study provides a clear view of consumer preferences across major markets, including the United States and Canada, and highlights which models managed to captivate buyers during that period.
In a striking display of brand strength, Apple occupied the first four positions on the list. Topping the chart was the iPhone 14, followed by the iPhone 14 Pro Max, the iPhone 14 Pro, and the iPhone 13 in fourth place. This cluster shows how Apple’s newer Pro models, along with the enduring appeal of the iPhone 14 family, continued to drive strong sales well into the autumn season across North America and other key regions. The remaining six spots were claimed exclusively by Samsung devices, specifically the Galaxy A14, the Galaxy A54, the Galaxy A14 5G, the Galaxy S23 Ultra, the Galaxy A04e, and the Galaxy A34. The concentration of Samsung models in the upper tier underscores the brand’s ability to offer a broad mix of premium and mid-range devices that appeal to varied budgets and carrier ecosystems.
Editors at MyDrivers commented on the results, noting an unexpected absence of any locally produced, domestic smartphones among the top sellers. This observation hints at broader dynamics in the global market where international brands, particularly those with strong global supply chains and marketing reach, can outsell locally manufactured models despite regional manufacturing capabilities. The takeaway emphasizes how global brands dominate many mid to high-end segments, while domestic manufacturing remains an important strategic factor for regional competitiveness.
The Counterpoint report also highlighted regional shifts in market share during the third quarter of 2023. Apple extended its footprint in Asia and Europe, largely driven by the performance of its Pro-series devices, which resonated with consumers seeking more capable cameras, faster processors, and premium build quality. Samsung, meanwhile, showed gains in Asia and Latin America, with the Galaxy A-series playing a pivotal role in broadening reach into mid-range segments that attract first-time smartphone buyers and cost-conscious customers. The findings suggest a clear pattern: premium models help secure market leadership in affluent regions, while a strong mix of affordable devices sustains momentum in developing markets. This dynamic is relevant to Canadian and American markets where carriers, retail channels, and financing options influence buying choices across family plans and upgrade cycles.
Looking ahead, the report hints at continued competition between the two leading brands, with both converging on features like high-refresh displays, robust camera systems, and long-lasting batteries. The momentum seen in the Galaxy A-series indicates Samsung’s continued emphasis on value, durability, and feature-rich experiences that appeal to a broad audience. For buyers in North America, understanding these shifts can help in planning purchases around seasonal promotions, carrier upgrades, and trade-in programs that maximize value over the device’s life cycle. Citation: Counterpoint Research; MyDrivers