Samsung Leads as Smartphone Sales Hit 13-Year Low, Driven by AI Chips

Global smartphone shipments fell 11% year-over-year in the second quarter of 2026. Counterpoint Research reported the market reached its lowest second-quarter level since 2013.

Suppliers prioritized the AI data center market, causing a shortage of DRAM and NAND memory chips. This supply shift increased component costs and final device prices.

Samsung reclaimed the top market position with a 24% share. The Galaxy S26 series drove strong sales for the company. Apple increased shipments by 3% during the quarter. The company captured a record 20% market share.

Budget and mid-range vendors experienced double-digit shipment declines. Xiaomi, OPPO, and vivo faced the most significant losses due to market exposure.