US smartphone sales declined 10% YoY in January

According to preliminary data from Counterpoint Research’s 2024 US Weekly Sell-Through Tracker, January sales declined by 10% YoY with the trend likely to continue for the full month. The main driver was the underperformance of the low-end segments. Premium and ultra-premium performed better but overall upgrade rates remained tepid.

“Tough times in the volume-driven low-end coupled with delayed upgrades in anticipation of new products drove the market lower,” says Maurice Klaehne, Senior analyst. “But we’re likely to see a rebound in February, especially as the Galaxy S24 series becomes available.”

Apple outperformed most brands with iPhone continuing to gain share with sales down low single digits. “We continue to see strong promotions for the iPhone 15 series in postpaid and there remains significant interest in older models like iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 amongst cost-conscious consumers in prepaid. This combination is enabling Apple to maintain stability in a market experiencing double-digit declines,” observes Jeff Fieldhack, Research Director for the US. “Good for share gains and great for the iOS installed base.” Counterpoint Research