According to a new report by research firm Omdia, global smartphone shipments declined 20 percent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2026. Manufacturers shipped a total of 254.7 million units during the quarter, the lowest third-quarter volume since 2013. The decline was attributed to rising smartphone prices and component shortages.
Samsung retained its position as the world's largest smartphone maker, shipping 57.8 million units, down 5 percent year-on-year. Apple followed closely with 56.5 million iPhones shipped, keeping its shipment numbers unchanged compared to the same quarter last year. Xiaomi secured the third spot with 30.7 million units, marking a 29 percent decline. Oppo ranked fourth with 23.4 million units, down 39 percent, while vivo rounded out the top five with 19.3 million units, representing a 33 percent decline.
The report notes that brands are focusing on profitable markets and key products, adjusting RAM/storage configurations and trimming model lineups to manage rising costs and protect margins. Omdia expects global smartphone shipments to decline by a further 12 percent this year, with the market likely to continue falling in 2027, although at a slower pace.
Source: GSMArena · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing