Apple claimed the lead in global smartphone sales for Q1, driven by the iPhone 16e launch and robust demand in Japan and India.Despite facing stagnant or falling sales in the U.S., Europe, and China, Apple outpaced Samsung with a 19% market share.Strong demand in emerging markets and competition from Huawei affected iPhone sales in China.Counterpoint Research predicts a market decline this year, with Xiaomi maintaining third place, followed by Vivo and OPPO.