Danny Weber
Global smartphone shipments fell 4.1% in Q1 2026 to 289.7 million units. Samsung and Apple grew market share, while Xiaomi and others declined. Learn about key factors and trends.
The global smartphone market started 2026 with a decline. According to IDC, first-quarter shipments fell by 4.1% to 289.7 million units. This marks the first drop after a sustained period of growth that began in mid-2023. Key factors include component supply issues, particularly for storage, and rising prices. These pressures are expected to continue affecting the market in the coming quarters.
Despite the overall downturn, Samsung and Apple managed to grow their market share. Samsung reclaimed the top spot, largely driven by demand for its Galaxy S26 lineup, especially the flagship model. Additional support came from its mid-range A-series devices. Apple secured second place, showing strong sales growth, particularly in China where demand for the iPhone 17 surged significantly. However, the company faced constraints, including supply disruptions and weak sales channel support in some regions.
Other top-five manufacturers delivered weaker results. Xiaomi held onto third place but saw a noticeable decline in shipments. OPPO maintained fourth position thanks to robust sales in China, while vivo rounded out the top five. Beyond the leaders, there were positive signals: Honor, Lenovo, and Huawei posted growth, partly by expanding into international markets. Nevertheless, even in China—a key region—the overall market continued to contract.
© A. Krivonosov