Following the launch of the Google Pixel 3a and the OnePlus 7 Pro, sales numbers have seen both companies gain ground in the US on other device manufacturers. Samsung, LG, and ZTE all suffered reductions in sales this year, although OnePlus and Google rocketed ahead. OnePlus saw growth of 152% year over year in sales, while Google came in second place with 88% growth. We already knew that Google was in a great place with the launch of the Pixel 3a, as the company revealed in July that it had helped the company double its year-on-year sales.
The increase in sales with the Pixel 3a is no surprise. The Google Pixel line of smartphones has always been seen as "good," but the price was always a factor when they didn't offer a lot more over the competition than a better camera. Now, the Pixel 3a brings that stellar camera to a lower price point, along with Google's software and support. The case of the OnePlus 7 Pro is an interesting one, as it's the second device from the company to launch with a carrier: T-Mobile. While more expensive than previous devices, it’s still one of the cheaper flagship options you’ll get at MSRP in-store.
Smartphone sales in the US have been in decline for several quarters now, as people hold onto their devices for longer or purchase their own devices elsewhere. Consumers are moving away from flagships, as shown by Apple's growth primarily coming from the iPhone XR. The top 5 devices in the US are still comprised of both Apple and Samsung, though, which shows their complete dominance of the market.
Interestingly, consumers are said to be holding out on devices as they await more 5G-enabled options before upgrading. With OnePlus set to launch a 5G device on Sprint's network soon, there may be more growth to come for the company yet.
Source: Counterpoint Research