Google’s Pixel smartphones have made a rare comeback in the global premium smartphone market, with sales increasing 105% year-on-year in the first half of 2025, according to Counterpoint Research, which pushed Google back in the top five premium smartphone brands globally.
The growth is a result of the success of the Pixel 9 series, which has appealed to consumers. Meanwhile, anticipation for the iPhone 17 Air and Apple iPhone 17 remains high among users, with speculation about iPhone 17 release dates generating excitement across tech communities.
Factors Driving Pixel’s Growth
A variety of significant contributors to the success of its growth are the following:
- Strong Pixel 9 Series: The Pixel 9 Series has contributed significantly to sales with remarkable features, and provided meaningful appeal to consumers who utilize their devices for different purposes. Still, many are comparing these advancements with the iPhone 17 features, fueling discussions about iPhone 17 Air vs iPhone 16 comparison.
- Increased Presence in Global Markets: Google has expanded its presence in multiple, global markets, providing accessibility along the way, to more consumers across the globe. Similarly, the Apple iPhone 17 Air design and performance continues to attract attention worldwide.
- Artificial Intelligence first: Google provided artificial intelligence as the first feature of the Pixel Series, creating differentiation among competitors. The ability to attract and build for tech-savvy users looking for cutting-edge tech opened up an additional target audience, much like the Apple iPhone 17 Air price and specs, which consumers are eager to evaluate.
Each strategy has increased sales and given consumers more confidence in the Pixel brand, while hype around the iPhone 17 Air launch date details continues to influence consumer expectations.
Market Share Landscape
Although Google’s strong growth continues, Apple is still in command in the premium smartphone market, holding 62% of the segment, but relatively modestly grew by about 3% from the prior year. Samsung held the second position with a 20% share, thanks to the new product launches from the Galaxy S25 series, having strong sales results.
HUAWEI enjoyed strong growth, as its market share year-over-year increased by 24%, primarily due to strong sales across China. Finally, Xiaomi was a bit of a surprise by growing its market share by 55% and being the fifth-largest player in the market. Meanwhile, the iPhone 17 Air and Apple iPhone 17 continue to dominate tech discussions due to their upcoming iPhone 17 release and iPhone 17 features.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of the Pixel 10 Series
Google is trying to capitalize on their recent success with the “expected” introduction of the Pixel 10 series. If the next new products are equipped with innovative features and follow an AI-first product strategy, Google can solidify its status as a high-end smartphone company. Similarly, enthusiasts await the iPhone 17 Air launch date details and review of Apple iPhone 17 Air price and specs, hoping to understand the iPhone 17 Air vs iPhone 16 comparison and evaluate Apple iPhone 17 Air design and performance.
We have seen the Pixel phones be a watershed moment in the first half of 2025; the second half could contain even more cutting-edge potential with the Pixel brand. The consumers, influencers, and industry will have a front-row seat to see how the Pixel 10 series competes with the iPhone 17 Air in the big picture.
