The previous high for mobile phone sales was 153.7 million units in the first quarter of 2004. Gartner analysts said mobile phone sales grew in all regions.
“In the mature markets of Western Europe and North America replacement sales ensured a buoyant performance,” said Ben Wood, research vice president for mobile terminals research at Gartner. “The Asia/Pacific region reflected seasonal trends by virtue of strong sales associated with Chinese New Year and other festivals.” In addition, rapid growth in emerging markets, notably Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa and Latin America, further bolstered global sales, he said.
