14 DAY TRIAL // Apple is getting ready to introduce the new-generation iPhone at an event on September 12, but in the meantime, the existing models continue to sell strong both online and offline.
New data published by Counterpoint Research shows that Apple tops US smartphone sales, though when looking exclusively at online sales, the Cupertino-based tech giant isn’t the leader.
Surprisingly, Amazon is the top smartphone seller with 23 percent of the sales, followed by Verizon with 12 percent and Best Buy with 9 percent. Apple is only fourth with 8 percent.
iPhone still the king
But Counterpoint says that regardless of retailer, “Apple iPhones remain the most popular models across both online and offline channels,” despite the new generation being just around the corner.
“Once again, Amazon.com led in online sales with 23% of total smartphones sold online. Prime Exclusive smartphones such as the Moto G6 and the Moto Z3 were successful in driving sales. Beyond Q2, Prime Day was once again a success and saw several unlocked phones such as the Samsung Galaxy Note 8 and Huawei’s Mate 10 Pro get a boost in sales due to steep discounts,” Research Director Jeff Fieldhack explained.
“Carriers were able to hold their sales somewhat constant in Q2, offering some online-only discounts that savvy consumers took advantage of. BestBuy and Apple are jostling for third and fourth place as Apple saw a slight downturn in online sales due to customers holding off on new phone purchases until the new iPhone series is announced in the coming month.”
Apple will unveil three different iPhone models next month, one of which has big chances to generate a super-cycle thanks to a smaller price tag. This particular model could come with a 6.1-inch LCD display and feature Face ID as well, though it may suffer a cost-saving treatment to ditch more premium functionality like wireless charging and a glass body.