Google’s strategic launch of the Pixel 9 series, including different models, positions the company for potential market share gains. By releasing these devices ahead of the launch of Apple’s iPhone 16 series, Google is aiming to capitalize on the upcoming holiday shopping season and capture a larger share of the global smartphone market, according to TechInsights.
Google Pixel 9 series could deliver double-digit market share growth
The Pixel series includes the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the long-awaited Pixel 9 Pro Fold. This model features subtle but significant improvements over last year’s Pixel Fold. Known for its high profitability and appeal to tech-savvy consumers, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is expected to boost Google’s reputation for technological innovation.
In addition to the foldable model, Google has introduced a smaller variant, the Pixel 9 Pro, which offers almost the same specifications as the larger Pixel 9 Pro XL. This move is intended to attract users who prefer smaller devices without sacrificing performance, potentially broadening the appeal of the Pixel 9 series to a wider audience.
The global expansion of the Pixel 9 series is another important aspect of Google’s strategy. The series is scheduled to launch in 32 markets around the world, reflecting Google’s intention to achieve the double-digit growth rates forecasted by TechInsights for 2024 and 2025.
By expanding into more markets, Google aims to strengthen its presence in the competitive smartphone industry, despite having no plans to launch the Pixel 9 series in China.
TechInsights also reports that the global smartphone market grew by 7.6% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2024, reaching 289.6 million units. This growth marks the third consecutive quarter of recovery, driven by strong demand in emerging markets such as Africa, Latin America, and Asia Pacific.
Samsung currently leads the market with a 19% share, followed by Apple with 15%, while other brands such as Xiaomi, Vivo, and Transsion are also performing well, although their growth rates are beginning to slow.
Despite current challenges, such as inventory adjustments and geopolitical uncertainty, competition among the leading smartphone brands remains strong, and emerging markets continue to be a key driver of global growth.