Over the years smartphones have evolved rapidly and become more technologically advanced to fit the trends of a digital era.
A smartphone is a mobile device that runs off a mobile operating system (OS) and functions like a mini computer. You can perform the primary function of calling and messaging a person in any corner of the world, taking pictures and videos, storing information, connecting with the global community on the internet and so many more functions.
There are over 7 billion active smartphones in the world and almost 250 Smartphone brands worldwide. These smartphone brands amass a huge revenue in the market.
| Phone | Volume Sale | Growth | |
| 1. | Transsion holdings(Infinix, Tecno, Itel) | 48% | 9% |
| 2. | Samsung | 26% | -13% |
| 3. | Xiaomi | 11% | 100% |
| 4. | Oppo | 4% | 259% |
| 5. | Realme | 3% | 11% |
If you were ever wondering about the sales of smartphones in Africa below is a breakdown of the best-selling smartphone brands accordingly in the continent based on their market share as of 2023(data by canalys analysis).
- Transsion holdings
Not many people know the name Transsion but millions of Africans can identify with the brands Tecno, Infinix, and itel which are owned by the company. Transsion is huge in Africa and has essentially dominated the smartphone market since its emergence.
They offer great features such as multiple SIM slots, large battery capacity, device heat protection, and nighttime photography in their sub-brands all at affordable prices. Transsion Holdings received a prevalent 48% share in the smartphone market and recorded a 9% annual growth as of 2023.
This further cemented their status as the leading smartphone company in Africa. Transsion sub-brands are particularly best sellers in Nigeria.
2. Samsung
Mobile brand Samsung emerged as the second most-bought mobile brand in Africa with a market share of 26%. Before Transsion holdings became huge in Africa, the South Korean brand Samsung led the smartphone race.
Although the brand’s premium prices might be a slight challenge, their commitment to sleek designs, stunning display, and seamless performance has made them one of the consumer’s favorites. Nigeria emerged as Samsung’s biggest market in Africa.
3. Xiaomi
Xiaomi’s relevant market share saw an increase of 100% with an estimated share of 11% in 2023. This growth is a result of the brand’s strategic expansion in emerging markets due to its high-spec performance technique at a lower price.
Xiaomi’s strategy has particularly been successful in North African countries such as Morocco and Egypt.
4. Oppo
Mobile brand oppo sits at the 4th position. The smartphone brand witnessed an impressive growth rate of 259% and a 4% share in the smartphone industry at the end of last year.
The Oppo brand has evolved rapidly in the market and is set to grow further in the future mainly because of its user-friendly interface, high quality, and reliable technology at a budget-friendly price. Oppo is mostly dominant in South Africa and North African countries.
5. Realme
Realme is one of the world’s fastest-growing smartphone brands and has steadily become a household name in Africa. Last year Realme garnered an 11% annual increase with a total share of 3% in the smartphone market.
The brand’s range of devices is equipped with innovative high-spec, great camera quality, and high-battery performance at low-cost pricing enticing more consumers to purchase the brand.
Other Smartphone brands such as Apple, Huawei, Gionee, Nokia, and many more make up the rest of the smartphone market with an accumulated share of 8%.
There’s no doubt Smartphones have become of great importance to our daily lives. The African smartphone industry generates a whopping amount of revenue annually and is expected to grow more in the coming years, with newer software updates and designs.
So did your smartphone brand make the list? Drop a comment.
