Global smartphone shipments fall 20% in Q3 2026, Omdia says
XLK•Global smartphone shipments fell 20% year over year to 254.7 million units in Q3 2026, the lowest third-quarter total since 2013. Full-year shipments are expected to decline 12%.
1. Shipments decline
Global smartphone shipments fell 20% year over year to 254.7 million units in the third quarter of 2026, the lowest third-quarter total since 2013. Rising device prices weakened demand, particularly in emerging markets, while higher working capital requirements constrained retailers’ inventory purchases.
2. Regional and brand trends
Africa recorded the steepest decline, at 39%, while North America remained relatively resilient, supported by financing, trade-in and upgrade programs. Samsung retained market leadership despite a 5% shipment decline; Apple’s shipments were flat.
3. Outlook
Full-year shipments are expected to fall 12%, with a slower decline forecast for 2027 as memory supply constraints keep costs elevated.
