Apple Raises US Smartphone Share to 69% with Record Q4 iPhone Sales
Apple achieved record iPhone sales in Q4 2025, raising its US smartphone market share to 69% driven by the iPhone 16e and 17 models. Rising memory costs are expected to increase bill of materials by at least 15% over two quarters, pressuring margins and delaying the iPhone 18.
1. Record-Breaking Quarterly Performance
Apple reported a fiscal first-quarter revenue of $143.8 billion, marking a 16 percent year-over-year increase and setting a new all-time quarterly revenue record. The services segment also reached an all-time high, growing 14 percent from the prior year. CEO Tim Cook highlighted that every geographic region delivered record revenue, driven largely by exceptional iPhone demand. This top-line strength translated into a 19 percent gain in earnings per share, another company record, underscoring the profitability of Apple’s diversified business model.
2. Staggering iPhone Demand and Market Share Gains
In Q4 2025, Apple shipped 4 million iPhones, a 6 percent year-over-year increase, which propelled its U.S. smartphone market share to 69 percent from 65 percent a year earlier. Strong uptake of the mid-range iPhone 16e and the premium iPhone 17 lineup boosted performance across major carriers, with Apple achieving its highest share of postpaid sales ever. Robust sales in the $300-to-$600 segment grew 27 percent year over year, highlighting consumer willingness to trade up despite broader market headwinds.
3. Valuation Metrics and Supply Constraints
Apple’s trailing-12-month price-to-earnings ratio stands at 34.6 times, above the technology sector median, while its price-to-sales ratio of 9.2 times reflects premium valuation driven by growth expectations. Investors should note that tight component inventories have led to a “supply chase” mode, as described by management, with lean channel stock levels exiting December. Ongoing memory-chip shortages are expected to pose margin pressures in the coming quarter, necessitating close monitoring of Apple’s supply chain resilience.