By Favour Osah

Mobile phones have changed the way we live, work and communicate. Some models became so popular that they sold hundreds of millions of units worldwide. Here’s a look at the ten best-selling phones ever, according to Accio.

1. Nokia 1100

Released in 2003, the Nokia 1100 sold around 250 million units. Simple, durable, and affordable, it became a favourite in every corner of the world. Its long battery life made it ideal for areas with limited electricity. The design was practical, fitting easily into pockets, and it became a cultural icon of early mobile technology.

2. Nokia 1110

The 1110 followed in 2005 with about 247.5 million units sold. It was basic, reliable and perfect for first-time phone users. It also featured built-in games like Snake II, which made it popular among younger users. Its bright display and easy-to-use interface kept it in high demand for years.

3. iPhone 6 & 6 Plus

Apple’s 2014 release sold roughly 222.4 million units. Its large screen and sleek design made it a global hit. The iPhone 6 series introduced Apple Pay, changing the way people used their phones for transactions. It also offered a smoother user experience, which attracted a massive number of Android switchers.

4. Nokia 105 Series

Launched in 2013, the 105 series sold around 200 million units. It offered long battery life and simple features at an ultra-budget price. Its lightweight design and durable build made it a reliable choice for students and workers alike. Many users preferred it as a backup phone because of its consistency and low cost.

5. iPhone 6S & 6S Plus

Released in 2015, Apple’s 6S series sold about 174.1 million units. It introduced 3D Touch and improved cameras while building on the iPhone 6’s success. The improved hardware allowed faster performance and better graphics for apps and games. Apple also expanded storage options, which appealed to power users who needed more space.

6. iPhone 5S

The 2013 iPhone 5S sold roughly 164.5 million units. It was Apple’s first model with Touch ID, offering speed and security. Its smaller design was still powerful, making it one of the most balanced iPhones of its time. The 5S also ran iOS smoothly, giving users access to apps without lag or slowdown.

7. Nokia 3210

An icon from 1999, the 3210 sold about 161 million units. It became famous for its design, removable covers, and the Snake game. Its durable shell and long battery life made it a favourite among teenagers and professionals alike. The 3210 also marked a shift toward personalising phones, as users could change covers and colors.

8. iPhone 7 & 7 Plus

Released in 2016, these models sold 159.9 million units. They added water resistance and better performance, though Apple removed the headphone jack. The dual-camera setup in the 7 Plus allowed better portrait photography, which became a major selling point. Apple’s marketing emphasised innovation and lifestyle, keeping the series highly desirable.

9. iPhone 11 / 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max

Launched in 2019, this lineup sold around 159.2 million units. Improved cameras and strong battery life kept Apple fans happy. Night mode photography became a standout feature, allowing users to take clear photos in low light. The iPhone 11 series also offered multiple colors, appealing to a wider audience and boosting sales.

10. iPhone XR / XS / XS Max

The 2018 models sold approximately 151.1 million units. They combined Face ID, big screens and advanced features at a more accessible price point. The XR, in particular, was praised for offering high performance at a lower cost compared to the XS. Apple’s continued focus on camera quality, battery and smooth performance helped these models remain popular for years.

These phones changed the mobile industry and set the standard for what people expect from a device. Their popularity shows the impact of design, reliability and innovation.

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