Apple iPhone 17 vs. Samsung One UI 8: A Heated Battle for the GSM Market in 2025

Apple and the iPhone 17: A Strong Start

Apple’s latest lineup — the iPhone 17 series — has launched with remarkable momentum, especially in China, where pre-orders already surpass last year’s figures. This year’s lineup brought several notable upgrades:

iPhone 17 base model finally received a 120 Hz 6.3-inch display, a feature previously reserved for “Pro” editions.

The new A19 chip delivers improved AI performance and better power efficiency.

iPhone 17 Pro introduces advanced cooling with a vapor chamber system, while the new iPhone 17 Air offers a thinner, lighter design.

Apple also revealed its N1 wireless chip (supporting Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, and Thread), reducing reliance on third-party suppliers.

Alongside the hardware, Apple rolled out iOS 26, featuring a fresh “Liquid Glass” design language, improved group calling tools, enhanced travel apps, and AI features that run directly on the device for better privacy and speed. Security remains a focus too, with rapid updates already rolling out for iPhone 11 and newer models.

Another important strategic move: Apple continues to expand production in India. For the first time, factories there will assemble not only standard iPhone 17 units but also the Pro and Air versions — a clear sign of supply chain diversification.

Samsung: Software Power and Market Positioning

Samsung is not standing still. The company has begun the global rollout of One UI 8, built on Android 16, starting in Europe (including Poland). Among the new features:

Upgraded Quick Share and improved Samsung DeX support (with better screen rotation and resolution options).

A redesigned Samsung Internet browser, enhanced file management, and smarter AI tools integrated into system apps.

On the security front, Samsung’s September 2025 patch fixes over ten critical vulnerabilities, covering both Android-level flaws and proprietary Galaxy issues. This monthly SMR (Security Maintenance Release) has become a core element of Samsung’s promise of long-term device support.

As always, Samsung didn’t miss the chance to take a jab at Apple. Shortly after the iPhone 17 reveal, the company mocked Apple’s triple 48 MP camera setup, boasting its own 200 MP sensors as superior. At the same time, Samsung is consolidating its lead in the foldable phone segment, a market where Apple has yet to make an entry.

Market Data: Poland and Beyond

In Poland, smartphone vendor market share (August 2025) looks like this:

Samsung – 31.4%

Apple – 23.1%

Xiaomi – 17.0%

Globally, both Apple and Samsung are repositioning their strategies. Samsung is betting on mid-range phones with AI features, while Apple remains focused on premium devices and ecosystem stability. This divergence could define their competition for the next few years.

Analysis: The GSM Rivalry Heats Up

Premium showdown: Apple relies on cutting-edge chips, cooling systems, and tight ecosystem integration, while Samsung emphasizes versatility, foldables, and camera supremacy.

Foldables as a frontier: Samsung leads this category, with Apple yet to present its first folding device. This gives Samsung a unique edge among early adopters.

Software & updates: Security and update speed are becoming decisive factors for many consumers. Both brands are now highlighting their commitment to long-term software support.

Global supply shifts: Apple’s India expansion and Samsung’s stronghold in Korea and Vietnam underline the importance of diversifying supply chains amid global tensions.

Conclusion

The last days in the GSM industry prove one thing: Apple and Samsung are pushing harder than ever to dominate the market. Apple is betting on AI, ecosystem strength, and hardware refinement with the iPhone 17, while Samsung focuses on Android leadership, foldables, and security-first updates with One UI 8.

For consumers, this rivalry translates into faster innovation, better devices, and broader choices at every price point. For the industry, it signals that the GSM market in late 2025 is more competitive — and more exciting — than ever before.