Global smartphone shipments fall 20% in third quarter of 2026, hitting lowest level since 2013

Global smartphone shipments fell 20% year over year in the third quarter of 2026, reaching 254.7 million units, the lowest volume recorded for that period since 2013, according to a report by research and consulting firm Omdia. The decline was driven by rising device prices and weaker demand, particularly in emerging markets.

Samsung maintained its position as the world’s leading smartphone manufacturer, shipping 57.8 million units, down 5%, followed by Apple with 56.5 million units, holding steady compared with the previous year. Xiaomi ranked third with 30.7 million units, a 29% decline, while OPPO shipped 23.4 million units, down 39%, and Vivo recorded 19.3 million units, a 33% drop. Africa experienced the steepest regional decline at 39%, while Latin America also saw shipments fall by more than 20%. Omdia forecasts a 12% decline in global shipments for 2026, with the market expected to contract again in 2027, although at a slower pace. Rising component costs, memory supply constraints and reduced consumer purchasing power are expected to continue weighing on demand and manufacturers.