Samsung's Galaxy S3 overtook Apple's iPhone 4S to become the world's best-selling smartphone model in the third quarter, according to research by Strategy Analytics. A large touchscreen, extensive distribution and generous operator subsidies have propelled the Galaxy S3 to the top spot. The Galaxy S3 shipped an estimated 18.0 million units worldwide in Q3, giving it an 11 percent share of all smartphones shipped. Apple shipped an estimated 16.2 million iPhone 4S units worldwide for second place, as consumers held off purchases in anticipation of the iPhone 5 launching later in the year. However, the Galaxy S3's position as the world's best-selling smartphone model is likely to be short-lived. The Apple iPhone 5 has gotten off to a solid start already with an estimated 6.0 million units shipped globally during Q3, and the market researcher expects the new iPhone 5 to out-ship Samsung's Galaxy S3 in the coming fourth quarter.
