United Kingdom, Nov. 27 -- Apple is on track to become the world's top smartphone maker.

According to new data from Counterpoint Research, surging demand for the iPhone 17 lineup is set to push Apple past Samsung by the end of 2025 - marking the company's first return to the top spot since 2011.

Counterpoint has said iPhone shipments are expected to grow 10 per cent next year, more than double Samsung's projected 4.6 per cent.

The sales boost for Apple is reportedly driven by three converging forces, those being a blockbuster upgrade cycle, strong momentum in the U.S. and China, and a more favourable global climate.

The iPhone 17 series - launched in September - has delivered double-digit year-over-year sales growth in both markets, h...