iOS 18 Adoption Surges as Apple Prepares for iOS 19 Launch

iOS 18 Adoption Rates Impress Ahead of iOS 19 Launch

As anticipation builds for the upcoming unveiling of iOS 19 at WWDC25, Apple has shared robust adoption statistics for its current operating system, iOS 18. Impressively, 88% of iPhones released in the last four years are currently running iOS 18, while the operating system has achieved an 82% adoption rate across all compatible iPhones. This performance slightly surpasses that of iOS 17 at this same time last year.

In similar fashion, iPadOS 18 has garnered a strong following, with an 81% adoption rate for more recent iPad models and a 71% uptake across all compatible devices. The steady adoption trajectory reflects consumers’ preference for updated functionalities while valuing the longevity of older devices.

iPhone 16 Sets New Sales Records

Complementing these software successes, the iPhone 16 has emerged as the best-selling smartphone globally in the first quarter of 2025, according to Counterpoint Research’s Global Handset Model Sales Tracker. This noteworthy achievement marks the iPhone base variant's return to the apex of the global smartphone market after a two-year hiatus.

Apple showcased its dominance in the sales landscape by securing five positions in the top-10 list for Q1, which includes the iPhone 16 Pro Max in second and iPhone 16 Pro in third. The iPhone 16 notably thrived in markets like Japan and the Middle East & Africa, capitalizing on favorable pricing strategies, updated subsidies, and improved economic circumstances, which stimulated performance.

Competition Dynamics

The newly launched iPhone 16e also made waves by debuting in the sixth position globally, exceeding sales expectations during its first month on the market. Meanwhile, Samsung's Galaxy S25 Ultra dropped to seventh place from fifth in Q1 2024, largely due to a shorter sales cycle. Nonetheless, the S25 series still represents a significant portion (one-quarter) of Samsung’s sales, fueled by AI-driven features and the integration of its new Gemini platform.

Outside of Apple and Samsung, Xiaomi managed to secure a place among the top ten with its Redmi 14C 4G, experiencing a remarkable 43% year-on-year growth compared to the Redmi 13C 4G. This indicates some resilience in Xiaomi's performance against a backdrop of increased competition.

Market Stability Despite Challenges

While surrounding geopolitical uncertainties and market volatility pose challenges, the report suggests a stable outlook for the top 10 best-selling smartphone models. As major players like Apple and Samsung continue to innovate and capture consumer interest, it remains to be seen how other brands will adapt and compete.

As we look ahead to the launch of iOS 19, Apple continues to demonstrate its ability to maintain significant customer engagement through its software updates and product offerings.