Data shows Android users switch to Apple thanks to iPhone SE

Jul 21, 2020 15:08 GMT  ·  By

Apple’s 2020 iPhone SE launched earlier this year as a way to convince users previously sticking with older iPhones to upgrade to new-generation hardware.

But at the same time, a $399 price tag is also a good reason for Android users to consider switching to the Apple ecosystem, as not being forced to pay a premium for an iPhone could convince more people to actually explore what Cupertino has to offer in the smartphone market.

And according to Counterpoint Research, the number of switchers making the move from Android to iPhone increased in the second quarter of 2020, mostly thanks to the iPhone SE.

“Over 30% of iPhone SE buyers came from using an iPhone 6S or older handset—handsets four years old or older. Over 26% of iPhone SE users moved over from an Android device, which is higher than normal Android to iOS switching,” Counterpoint Research explains.

No impact on iPhone 5G sales

On the other hand, the company says that Apple’s sell-through sales fell 23 percent year over year due to obvious reasons during the quarter, while Chinese company ZTE was the most affected with a 68 percent drop. OnePlus also experienced a 60 percent drop, while Samsung faced the difficult market very well, as its sales declined just 10 percent.

However, Counterpoint Research says the iPhone SE played a key role in keeping Apple sales at this level, as otherwise, the sell-through volumes would have declined even more.

“Apple volumes grew through the quarter and were especially helped by iPhone SE volumes. The device has been successful and selling above expectations in both postpaid and prepaid channels. Since the iPhone SE launched, carrier stores and national retail have been re-opening,” Counterpoint says.

The market research firm claims there’s a good chance the iPhone SE won’t impact the debut of the 5G iPhone in any way, as it’s mostly aimed at people who are more pragmatic about the price and don’t care about the latest-generation features like 5G.