Recent data released by Canalys indicates a deceleration in smartphone shipments compared to the figures observed in 2020. The previous year presented significant challenges for the industry, which was already experiencing a downward trend. Initial expectations that the introduction of 5G technology would revitalize the market were impacted by the emergence of COVID-19.

However, the outlook is improving, largely driven by a remarkably strong performance from Apple. The company’s latest earnings report attributes a substantial portion of its success to the iPhone 12. Despite, or potentially as a result of, pandemic-related delays, the device launched at an opportune moment – initiating a “supercycle” where a large number of consumers simultaneously upgraded their devices.

While figures for the fourth quarter of 2020 still reflect a decrease, the decline was limited to just 2%, according to the firm. This improvement is primarily attributable to Apple’s strongest quarterly performance, coinciding with the release of four 5G-enabled handsets. Canalys data reveals a 4% growth for Apple, as the device became available alongside a broader 5G network deployment during the holiday shopping season.

Apple secured the leading global position, while Samsung ranked second despite experiencing a 12% decrease in sales. Chinese manufacturers Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo completed the top five, each demonstrating year-over-year double-digit growth.

Analyst Ben Stanton notes that “The rollout of COVID-19 vaccines is also enhancing business confidence for 2021, enabling companies to plan and invest.” He further adds, “Looking ahead, there will inevitably be economic consequences as government support measures are reduced, and concerns persist regarding new virus variants. Nevertheless, overall industry sentiment is optimistic, and the smartphone market is expected to rebound after a 7% contraction in 2020.”

A separate report from Canalys highlights positive trends in the PC market, showing a 35% year-over-year increase, fueled by sales of tablets and Chromebooks.