Top 10 Countries with the Most Smartphone Users in 2025: India’s Rank May Surprise You

Smartphones are no longer just gadgets - they're digital lifelines. In today’s hyper-connected world, it’s hard to imagine daily life without one. From business meetings and banking to learning and entertainment, smartphones have become essential. With over 7.21 billion smartphones in use globally in 2025, that’s more than 90% of the world’s population holding a smart device in hand. Curious to know which countries lead the charge in smartphone usage? The numbers may surprise you - especially India’s standing.

1. China – The Undisputed Leader

• Smartphone Users: 974.7 million
• Population: 1.43 billion
• Penetration Rate: 68.4%

China tops the list by a huge margin, thanks to its population size and digital ecosystem. From mobile payments via WeChat and Alipay to local tech giants like Xiaomi and Huawei, smartphones are an integral part of daily life. The country’s aggressive 5G rollout further fuels this growth.

2. India – Surging Ahead in the Digital Era

• Smartphone Users: 659 million
• Population: 1.42 billion
• Penetration Rate: 46.5%

India ranks second in total users despite a lower penetration rate. Affordable smartphones, cheap data plans, and initiatives like UPI and Aadhaar have driven mass adoption, especially in rural regions. For many, smartphones are the first and only access point to the Internet.

3. United States – High Usage, High Penetration

• Smartphone Users: 276.1 million
• Population: 338.3 million
• Penetration Rate: 81.6%

The U.S. comes in third, but leads in penetration. From remote work and streaming to e-commerce and fintech, smartphones dominate everyday routines. It’s not uncommon for users to own multiple devices, and early tech adoption plays a big role in shaping usage trends.

4. Indonesia – Southeast Asia’s Digital Giant

• Smartphone Users: 187.7 million
• Population: 275.5 million
• Penetration Rate: 68.1%

Young and tech-savvy, Indonesians rely heavily on smartphones for messaging, online shopping, and social media. The country is now a key player in the regional mobile economy.

5. Brazil – South America’s Smart Leader

• Smartphone Users: 143.4 million
• Population: 215.3 million
• Penetration Rate: 66.6%

Brazilians use smartphones as a primary gateway to news, social platforms, and mobile banking. The popularity of WhatsApp has significantly shaped its mobile culture.

6. Russia – Digitally Driven Urban Life

• Smartphone Users: 106.4 million
• Population: 144.7 million
• Penetration Rate: 73.6%

With increased urbanisation and rising tech infrastructure, Russians are turning to smartphones for navigation, digital payments, and services like Yandex, embracing a mobile-first mindset.

7. Japan – Where Innovation Meets Everyday Life

• Smartphone Users: 97.4 million
• Population: 123.9 million
• Penetration Rate: 78.6%

Japan's tech-savvy population enjoys cutting-edge mobile services. From seamless cashless transactions to immersive mobile gaming, smartphones blend into almost every aspect of life.

8. Nigeria – Africa’s Mobile Frontier

• Smartphone Users: 83.3 million
• Population: 218.5 million
• Penetration Rate: 38.1%

Nigeria leads Africa in mobile usage. With a young and growing population, smartphones are the main point of internet access, driving progress in education, business, and digital inclusion.

9. Mexico – Fast-Growing and Youth-Powered

• Smartphone Users: 78.4 million
• Population: 127.5 million
• Penetration Rate: 61.5%

Affordable devices and a digitally inclined youth are propelling Mexico’s mobile revolution. Social media and e-commerce are driving significant mobile traffic here.

10. Pakistan – Growing Connectivity Across Borders

• Smartphone Users: 73 million
• Population: 235.8 million
• Penetration Rate: 31%

Despite low penetration, Pakistan has made major strides in mobile adoption. Widespread 4G rollout and a youthful population are turning smartphones into tools for learning, trading, and connecting, especially in remote areas.

As the global population becomes more digitally connected, smartphones are not just communication tools - they’re platforms for opportunity. Countries like India and Nigeria show how mobile tech can bridge infrastructure gaps and empower entire populations. The smartphone revolution is only just beginning, and the numbers are set to rise even further in the years ahead.