According to a new report from research firm Omdia, global smartphone shipments experienced a significant contraction in the third quarter of 2026, falling 20 percent compared to the same period last year. Manufacturers collectively shipped 254.7 million units during the quarter, representing the lowest shipment volume recorded for a third quarter since 2013. The report attributes this sharp decline largely to increasing smartphone prices.
Samsung maintained its position as the world's leading smartphone manufacturer, shipping 57.8 million units, though this figure reflects a 5 percent decrease year-on-year. Apple followed closely in second place with 56.5 million iPhones shipped, keeping its volume unchanged compared to the third quarter of the previous year. Xiaomi secured the third spot with 30.7 million units, marking a substantial 29 percent drop from last year.
The top five was completed by Oppo and vivo, both of which faced steep declines. Oppo ranked fourth with 23.4 million units shipped, down 39 percent from the prior year, while vivo placed fifth with 19.3 million units, representing a 33 percent decrease compared to Q3 2025.
Omdia notes that brands are currently prioritizing profitable markets and key products in response to component shortages. To manage rising costs and protect margins, manufacturers are adjusting RAM and storage configurations while trimming their model lineups. Looking ahead, the firm expects global smartphone shipments to decline by a further 12 percent for the remainder of 2026, with the market likely to continue falling in 2027, albeit at a slower pace.
Sources: GSMArena.