Mobile phone sales history: Explore the enduring success of ultra-affordable models (Nokia) vs. premium smartphones (Apple). Which models top the list?
In four decades, mobile devices have transformed from hefty “bricks” to sleek modern marvels, yet the history of sales is still profoundly shaped by affordability and market accessibility.
This chart, ranking the best-selling mobile phone models of all time, highlights the enduring dominance of simple, ultra-affordable feature phones from the early 2000s.
The top spot is secured by the Nokia 1100 (250 million units sold), a basic bar phone released in 2003. Its overwhelming success, along with the Nokia 1110 (248 million units), came from targeting emerging markets where their low cost, exceptional durability, and features like a flashlight made them revolutionary lifelines. These models were responsible for connecting a billion people globally.
In contrast, the premium smartphone entries are dominated by Apple. The iPhone 6 and 6 Plus (222 million units combined) marked a pivotal moment in 2014 by introducing larger screens, appealing widely to new users. Their sales surged further when relaunched affordably in India and China in 2017.
