Global Smartphone Shipments Hit Lowest Level Since 2013 Amid Memory Chip Shortage

Global smartphone shipments declined 11% in the second quarter of 2026, marking the lowest Q2 volume since 2013, according to Counterpoint Research.

• Counterpoint Research reported global smartphone shipments fell 11% year-on-year in Q2 2026 to their lowest for that quarter since 2013, driven by a memory chip shortage that raised production costs and prices.
• Apple posted a 3% increase in shipments during the same quarter, raising its global market share to a record 20%.
• Samsung regained the top spot with a 24% global market share, supported by strong sales of its Galaxy S26 series and improved product availability.
• Counterpoint forecast a 14% decline in full-year 2026 global shipments and said the memory chip shortage could persist into 2027.