Worldwide smartphone sales increased 76 per cent year-on-year to a record 110 million units in the second-quarter 2011, a report from market research firm Strategy Analytics' Wireless Smartphone Strategies (WSS) service has revealed.
Apple and Samsung both overtook long-time volume leader Nokia for the top two spots in the rankings, wireless communication device manufacturers may be interested to learn.
"We had previously reported on Apple becoming the largest smartphone vendor in terms of revenue and profits," senior analyst Alex Spektor explained to Semiconductor Today.
"Now," he added, "just four years after the release of the original iPhone, Apple has become the world’s largest smartphone vendor by volume."
Indeed, Apple's shipments have climbed from just 8.4 million to 20.3 million units, thereby improving its market share from 13.5 per cent to 18.5 per cent.
"Apple's growth remained strong as it expanded distribution worldwide, particularly in China and Asia," Mr Spektor remarked.
Posted by Simon Jones