A new analytical report posted this morning states that Japan’s smartphone sales grew 7% YoY in 2024 driven by economic recovery. The country’s smartphone market is gradually recovering, driven by steady economic growth, wage increases and stabilized import prices, which have boosted consumer spending.

The Counterpoint report further noted that "Apple, which holds the largest share in Japan’s smartphone market, registered strong sales for the iPhone 16 series, boosted by stable exchange rates. However, the brand’s overall sales declined 3% YoY in 2024 due to weaker demand for older models."

Of course this will likely change once the new iPhone 16e hits the market. This will assist Apple in challenging lower priced smartphone models from Chinese vendors Xiaomi and OPPO and local brand Sharp. Xiaomi rose 129% YoY.

Despite Apple's slight decline, they continued to dominate the premium segment.

(Click on Chart to Enlarge)

In a secondary report this morning from Counterpoint, they presented an Indian Smartphone Market Share Chart showing Apple edging out Samsung. Counterpoint noted that "Apple entered the top five in Q4 2024 in India for the first time in a quarter." Once again, Apple's new iPhone 16e could be key to further growth in India.

(Click on Chart to Enlarge)