Google Pixel market share grew in the US and Australia despite overall market decline in 2023

While the overall smartphone market has seen a decline, Google Pixel is defying the trend and growing its market share in both the US and Australia. This new data comes from IDC.

In the US, Google Pixel captured 4.6% of the market in 2023, up from 3.6% in 2022. This puts Google in fourth place behind Samsung, Apple, and other brands. Interestingly, despite the market share growth, Pixel sales actually dropped year-over-year in the US. This suggests that Google is taking market share from competitors, rather than expanding the overall market.

Unlocked phone sales were a bright spot for Google in the US. In this segment, Pixels made up a much more impressive 9% of the market. This suggests that consumers are willing to pay a premium for unlocked Pixel devices, which offer a clean software experience and integration with Google services.

Earlier this year, Counterpoint reported Google securing a 2% market share in Q4 2023 in the US. So take the data with a grain of salt.

Australia’s smartphone market also saw a decline in Q4 2023, with shipments down 6% compared to the same quarter in 2022. However, there was a slight uptick in shipments compared to the previous quarter, likely due to holiday sales, says IDC. Google managed to secure the third spot alongside Oppo in the market. Samsung’s market share dipped slightly, while Lenovo and Motorola saw their share double.

The reasons for Google Pixel’s success in these two markets are likely due to a combination of factors. Google’s Pixel phones offer competitive pricing, especially when compared to high-end Samsung and Apple devices. Additionally, Pixel phones are known for their clean software experience and long-term software support. This is a major selling point for users who want a phone that will be updated with the latest security patches and features for several years.

Looking ahead, it will be interesting to see if Google can continue to grow its market share in the US and Australia. The company is expected to release new Pixel phones later this year, which could help to boost sales. Additionally, Google is expanding its marketing efforts for Pixel devices, which could also lead to increased brand awareness.

It’s important to note that while Google Pixel is growing its market share, it is still a relatively small player in the overall smartphone market. However, the company’s recent success suggests that it is on the right track. What are your thoughts on Google’s market performance? Let us know in the comments below.