Apple Predicted to Expand Lead in Global Semiconductor Purchases in 2012

Research firm IHS iSuppli today released the results of a new study tracking global semiconductor sales in 2012, predicting that Apple will expand its lead on the strength of 15% growth in the face of a stagnant market. Apple first topped the list in 2010 after quickly rising from third place in 2009 and sixth place in 2008.

Apple is maintaining its lead in semiconductor purchasing because of continuing strong demand for its products, combined with the company’s capability to maintain beneficial relationships with more than 150 suppliers that provide components or offer manufacturing and assembly services.

But aside from maintaining its global dominance in chip purchasing, Apple is also outgrowing the other OEMs and making gains in the various regions of the world. For Apple, this translates into competitive advantages when it comes to manufacturing electronic products.

The report notes that Apple's increasingly dominant market position, which is estimated to see nearly double the revenue of second-place Samsung this year, gives Apple significant market advantages in terms of controlling pricing, availability, and product roadmaps.

Apple is predicted to continue expanding its lead in 2013, with IHS iSuppli's estimates pegging Apple at 12.3% growth next year, the highest of any top-ten global customer.