Report: iPhone 6 Drives Share Gains Across Most Global Markets

A new report from Kantar Worldpanel ComTech shows meaningful iPhone sales gains across most major global markets. According to the data, market share for the Apple phone grew across all countries surveyed except in Japan.

The growth was clearly triggered by the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus. The following Kantar chart compares sales data by operating system for the September – November period in 2013 and 2014.

Android is still by far the dominant operating system on a global basis. Of the markets reflected above, Android’s share is greatest in China (helped by the recent success of Xiaomi), Germany and France.

Compared with a year ago, the iPhone made its largest gains in the UK, Australia and the US market. December data should continue the above trend.

Kantar says that smartphone ownership in the US is 58 percent (low) and 65 percent in the five largest European markets. By comparison comScore reports that US smartphone penetration is roughly 72 percent. By the end of 2015 it will probably reach 80 percent (or more).

About The Author

Greg Sterling

Greg Sterling is a Contributing Editor at Search Engine Land. He writes a personal blog, Screenwerk, about connecting the dots between digital media and real-world consumer behavior. He is also VP of Strategy and Insights for the Local Search Association.