North America Handset Market Q3 2005: LG and Samsung Solidify Positions, Motorola Dominates

Strategic Insights -

The latest Strategy Analytics report finds that LG Electronics and Samsung have secured their positions as top vendors in the North American market, with Motorola maintaining its leading share position. LG and Samsung each hold 20% and 17% of the market share respectively, with Motorola dominating at 35%. The report predicts that these vendors will maintain their positions through 2006, with LG set to expand its CDMA market share and Motorola focusing on CDMA product expansion.

Key Takeaways:

  • LG Electronics and Samsung have solidified their positions as top vendors in the North American market, with 20% and 17% market share respectively.
  • Motorola has maintained its leading share position, but has begun to focus on CDMA product expansion, aiming to push its overall North America share position above 35% in 2006.
  • LG is showing strong sales performance from new products, flexibility in responding to operator needs, and an impressive time-to-market performance.
  • LG has a coordinated strategy to maintain and extend a top three share position in the US through 2006.
  • Motorola has extended its leading share position, driven by its design expertise and success in the GSM market over the past year.
  • The Korean vendors, LG and Samsung, are set to continue their market battle, with LG showing the highest level of sales from new products and flexibility in responding to operator needs.

Statistics:

  • LG Electronics holds 20% of the North American market share in Q3 2005.
  • Samsung holds 17% of the North American market share in Q3 2005.
  • Motorola holds 35% of the North America share position, aiming to push it above 35% in 2006.
  • LG has a significant lead in time-to-market performance, responding to operator needs with impressive consistency.
  • Motorola reports a significant design expertise driving its GSM sales over the last year.

Sources:

  • Strategy Analytics Wireless Device Strategies (WDS) report, "North America Handset Market Q3' 2005".
  • Strategy Analytics, Inc. press release, "Motorola Gains Top Spot in North America Handset Shipments" (www.strategyanalytics.com/press/PR00229.htm).
  • Strategy Analytics, Inc. (www.strategyanalytics.com).