The iPhone That Sold 30 Million Units in 2023 Despite Being the Worst in History: What’s the Mystery?
When it comes to Apple’s iPhone 14, it was met with low ratings from experts and tech news outlets upon its release. Many believed that it didn’t offer significant upgrades and advised users not to purchase it if they already owned the previous iPhone 13.
In reality, the iPhone 14 could be considered the worst-rated iPhone in history, not because it was a terrible phone, but because it was essentially a clone of the iPhone 13, a true iPhone 13.5.
Surprisingly, despite the advice to steer clear, the iPhone 14 secured the third spot on Canalys’ list of the top 10 best-selling smartphones worldwide in 2023, only surpassed by the two powerhouse devices, the iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Image: Top 10 best-selling smartphones in the world in 2023
Despite the criticisms, iPhone users seemed unfazed. Phone Arena even concluded that Apple is like a “cult” – loyal fans will buy their devices no matter how bad they may seem.
No matter whether Apple introduces innovations or not, people will continue to buy iPhones whenever they are released, even if they come with a single camera, an LCD screen, or a notch.
Ultimately, Apple remains the number one brand in the smartphone market. In fact, many premium Android devices didn’t even make the top 10 list.
But how far will Apple’s conservative approach take them?
Despite Google and Samsung constantly pushing the boundaries with improved AI features and significant software support, the numbers speak for themselves – the iPhone will continue to be the most popular phone in 2024.
Of course, this could be considered a premature prediction, but let’s take a look at the iPhone 15. It is touted as an excellent upgrade, meaning that no matter which iPhone 15 model you choose, it will be worth the investment.
Although the iPhone 15 was only released in September 2023, making it available for only the last three months of the year, it still managed to secure the tenth spot on the list of the best-selling smartphones.
The astonishing numbers on Apple’s best-selling smartphones list from the previous year have a reason behind them. Just think about how the iPhone 14, with all its shortcomings, managed to sell so well. Therefore, the iPhone 15 will undoubtedly continue to dominate the phone market in 2024.
When compared to the iPhone 15, Samsung’s Galaxy S23 series had a seven-month presence in the market in 2023. However, none of the Galaxy S23 smartphones even made it into the top 10 list.
Whether you prefer the impressive AI features of the Galaxy S24 or the beautifully designed Pixel 8 Pro, the truth is that the Android flagship products will still trail behind the success of the iPhone.
Apple’s momentum will be challenging to disrupt. Especially when considering the consistent popularity of the standard iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus models.
Can the Galaxy S24 Help Samsung Turn the Tide?
It is unlikely that the Galaxy S24 Ultra will sell as well as Samsung hopes, as it comes with a higher price tag. Despite it being considered the best phone money can buy right now and breaking some sales records in its home country, South Korea.
With the iPhone 15 already miles ahead of the iPhone 14, the iPhone 16 could continue to be a highly sought-after choice, even if it doesn’t bring any groundbreaking surprises.
Looking beyond smartphones, Apple maintains a strong presence in the premium laptop market, dominates the tablet market, and leads the wearables market with products like AirPods and Apple Watch.
Moreover, the revolutionary Vision Pro augmented reality glasses from Apple, which were recently released, are selling better than expected, despite their starting price of $3,500.
Whether you use an iPhone or any other Apple product, you cannot deny the influence of the virtual world that Apple envelops us in. Love it or hate it, iPhones will keep selling like hotcakes.
Business Today