Over 2 Billion Smartphones to Ship in 2018, 1.25 Billion in 2014

ABI Research expects 1.25 billion smartphones to ship in 2014 and forecasts smartphone shipments to pass the 2 billion mark in 2018. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the forecast period from 2014 to 2019 is 12%.

“While smartphone growth is beginning to fall, plenty of growth remains, with smartphone penetration of mobile subscribers under 30% worldwide,” commented Nick Spencer, senior practice director, ABI Research. “Most advanced and affluent markets already have 60%+ penetration, so the growth is driven by developing markets and the reduction in smartphone ASPs.”

Smartphones will consolidate their lead as the largest computing category, more than doubling that of its nearest rival in 2017. Growth is being driven by Chinese and Indian smartphone manufacturers, creating low-cost Android or AOSP devices for markets in Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America.

These findings are part of ABI Research’s Smartphones and Handsets Market Research, which includes Research Analyses, Market Data, Insights, and Competitive Assessments.

ABI Research provides in-depth analysis and quantitative forecasting of trends in global connectivity and other emerging technologies. From offices in North America, Europe and Asia, ABI Research’s worldwide team of experts advises thousands of decision makers through 70+ research and advisory services. Est. 1990. For more information visit www.abiresearch.com, or call +1.516.624.2500.