Global smartphone shipments record worst third quarter in 14 years amid memory shortage

Published Tue, Oct 13, 2026 · 08:24 AM

[BENGALURU] Global smartphone shipments fell 20 per cent on the year to their lowest third-quarter level since 2012, as soaring memory chip costs and supply shortages pressured manufacturers and pushed up prices, preliminary estimates from Counterpoint Research showed on Monday (Oct 12).

Rising prices for memory components as artificial intelligence infrastructure projects corner supplies have driven up production costs and prompted manufacturers to raise retail prices, cut shipments and prioritise profitability over volumes.

“Consumers are holding on to their devices longer than estimated, increasingly considering refurbished devices and prioritising higher-value devices,” said Counterpoint senior analyst Shilpi Jain.

Samsung retained its top position with a 23 per cent market share, helped by demand for its Galaxy Z Fold8 series and stable component supplies for its mid-range devices. Shipments fell 3 per cent from a year earlier during the quarter.

Apple’s market share reached 22 per cent, crossing 20 per cent for the first time in a third quarter, despite a year-on-year decline in shipments.

The absence of a base iPhone 18 model resulted in a smaller launch-month channel fill than the full iPhone 17 lineup a year earlier, Counterpoint said.

Oppo and Vivo recorded shipment declines of more than 20 per cent. Xiaomi saw a more than 30 per cent fall, reducing its market share to 10 per cent as the company cut exposure to lower-priced devices and some overseas markets to protect margins.

“The outlook for the remainder of 2026 remains challenging,” Counterpoint said.

“Production cuts, tighter portfolios, and greater focus on premium devices are likely to continue, while price-sensitive segments face further pressure from higher device prices and limited availability of components.” REUTERS