Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) introduces a new series of phones every year and its latest is usually the best. In 2016, the iPhone maker introduced iPhone 7, which was the successor of the iPhone 6s, introduced in 2015. However, the former did not get as much popularity as the latter in 2016.

A new report by a research firm IHS Markit states that the 2016 shipment of the iPhone 6s was more than 60 million units. The device was available throughout 2016 even though the shipments for iPhone 7 and 7 Plus surged in the fourth quarter. The iPhone 7 had more than 50 million units shipped while its counterpart the iPhone 7 Plus obtained 25 million units of shipment.

But how many units were sold to end customers?

More often than not, it is hard to tell how many units of the shipment reached the end customer. The shipments in most cases represent the number of units sold into the retail channel. Apparently, Apple only reveals the quarterly number of iPhones sold but it will not give the actual breakdown in terms of individual models.

Nonetheless, the iPhone 7 had a strong debut according to IHS’ findings even as Apple continues to sell iPhone 6s. Its shipment nearly caught up with that of iPhone 6s.

Market competition outlook

Apple’s lead over its rival Samsung Electronics Co Ltd (KRX:005935) was impressive given the presence of the likes of Galaxy S7 edge, which is also a model to reckon. It took the fifth spot. Its counterpart Galaxy Note 7 was notably absent perhaps as a result of last year’s recall, which was occasioned by safety concerns following the blowing up of some units. Though not very popular, Samsung’s Galaxy J3 took sixth place with 25 million units while Galaxy J5 had more than 24 million units landing the eight place.

Another competitor, which did not have any shipments last year was Huawei, which has now taken the third position of Smartphone makers. It follows some of the major players. Meanwhile, Apple’s stock closed at $141.42 witnessing an increase of $1.58 or 1.13%.