The launch of the 5G iPhone 12 series propelled Apple to the number one position in the fourth quarter, Gartner said in a statement on Monday. The last time Apple was the top smartphone vendor was in the fourth quarter of 2016, according to Gartner's data, which tracks sales to consumers. Samsung still on top for the yearSamsung SSNLF sold 62 million smartphones in the fourth quarter. The company announced thatit was selling itsbudget smartphone business, Honor , in November, which could dent smartphone sales further going forward. "The rising demand for affordable 5G smartphones outside China will boost smartphone sales in 2021," said Gupta.

Source: CNN February 22, 2021 13:30 UTC