Apple Inc. is projected to become the world's largest smartphone manufacturer in 2025, overtaking Samsung for the first time since 2011. This forecast, from Counterpoint Research, is driven by the successful launch of the iPhone 17 series, which has spurred a wave of consumer upgrades in key markets like the U.S. and China, leading to double-digit year-over-year sales growth in those regions. According to the research, iPhone shipments are expected to grow by 10% in 2025, in contrast to Samsung's projected 4.6% growth. This will likely give Apple a 19.4% share of the global smartphone market, which is anticipated to expand by 3.3% overall. In response to the positive outlook, Apple's shares saw a significant rally, reaching a new record high.