Alexandra Borgeaud
Research expert covering cybersecurity and tech in Latin America
Smartphones in Spain - statistics & facts
From calling a friend in Madrid or recording a video of a Flamenco dance in Sevilla, smartphones play an increasingly significant role in the life of Spanish consumers. The number of smartphone users in the South European country is expected to reach nearly 45 million by 2029, with the growing number and variety of mobile devices and smartphone applications testifying to their fundamental importance. Indeed, the development of modern technologies and increasing competition continue to drive the Spanish smartphone market forward. It then comes as no surprise that in 2023, around 97.5 percent of Spanish households owned at least one mobile phone – making these devices an indispensable staple of the Spanish population. Some of the most used smartphone apps in the country include internet browsers, email platforms, and social media apps.
Furthermore, it is fair to state that Apple’s iOS and Android control the entire Spanish smartphone operating system market, with Android accounting for 80 percent of it in 2024 market. Regarding mobile carriers, Telefónica – operating in Spain as Movistar – Vodafone, Orange, and Digimobil are the most popular, providing services to almost 60 percent of Spanish smartphone users.
Global companies dominate the market
As of 2024, the Chinese smartphone manufacturer Xiaomi remained the most popular smartphone brand in Spain, with a market share reaching nearly 30 percent, placing the company ahead of the Korean tech giant, Samsung, as well as Apple. However, in terms of smartphone models, the Samsung Galaxy A12 was the bestselling Android smartphone in Spain.Furthermore, it is fair to state that Apple’s iOS and Android control the entire Spanish smartphone operating system market, with Android accounting for 80 percent of it in 2024 market. Regarding mobile carriers, Telefónica – operating in Spain as Movistar – Vodafone, Orange, and Digimobil are the most popular, providing services to almost 60 percent of Spanish smartphone users.
5G strives in Spain
The increase in smartphone consumption and revenue has also been in line with the rollout of 5G technology in Spain. As of mid-2023, 5G mobile coverage in Spain amounted to over 92 percent at the national level, and just under 70 percent in rural areas. In 2023, 5G connections accounted for nearly 60 percent of all mobile connections in the South European country. Looking ahead, the share of 5G phones in Spain is forecast to exceed 84 percent by 2025. Future tech developments can be expected to continue to have an impact on the use of smartphones and network technologies, thus contributing to the growth of the Spanish smartphone industry.
