The global handset business has faltered due to the recession. Research firm Strategic Analytics says that worldwide handset sales fell to 291 million units in Q3 down from 304 million in the same period a year ago. But, the firm expects Q4 to be a period of improving sales compared to last year, and part of that improvement is likely to be driven by strong sales of Apple’s (NASDAQ:AAPL) iPhone.
The two very large handset companies that are predicted to do better are South Korean manufacturers LG and Samsung. Nokia (NYSE:NOK), Motorola (NYSE:MOT), and Sony Ericsson are expected to do poorly.
Apple’s global share of the handset market hit 3% in Q3 and is likely to grow strongly through the end of the year.
The analysis shows Apple’s ability to continue improving its iPhone sales even while other companies face losses. The iPhone did will even though it was not for sale in China and many other markets where Nokia, Samsung, and LG have long had relationships with carriers.
Apple has 3% of the global market now, but the figure could clearly double as it pens deals with large cellular carriers in the developing world. Nokia, Sony Ericsson, and Motorola have been losing market share for over a year. Apple will contribute to the continuation of that trend.
Douglas A. McIntyre
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