Smartphone Shipments Plummet 20% to 14-Year Low Amid RAM Crisis

WHO:

Techmeme - Counterpoint Research reported on global smartphone shipments.

WHAT:

Reuters - China's Q3 smartphone shipments fell 15.4% year-over-year to 57.9 million units, marking the sixth consecutive quarter of decline.

Reuters - Huawei led the Chinese smartphone market with a 21% share, while Apple held a 17.8% share in Q3.

Techmeme - Global smartphone shipments fell 20% year-over-year in Q3 2026.

Techmeme - The decline in shipments reached a 14-year low.

Techmeme - Apple's market share crossed 20% for the first time in any Q3, reaching 22%.

WHERE:

Techmeme - The report pertains to the global smartphone market.

WHEN:

Techmeme - The statistics refer to Q3 2026.

WHY:

CNET - The decline in smartphone shipments is attributed to memory shortages affecting supply for most OEMs.

HOW:

CNET - Higher phone prices are squeezing consumers' wallets, impacting purchasing decisions.

(UPDATED October 13, 2026 09:07 UTC)

China's smartphone shipments in the third quarter dropped by 15.4% year-over-year, totaling 57.9 million units, which marks the sixth consecutive quarter of decline. Huawei led the market with a 21% share, while Apple followed closely with a 17.8% share during this period. This downturn highlights ongoing challenges in the smartphone industry within China.

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(UPDATED October 12, 2026 23:02 UTC)

Global smartphone shipments have experienced a significant decline, dropping 20% year-over-year in Q3 2026, marking the lowest level in 14 years. In contrast, Apple has seen its market share rise to 22%, surpassing 20% for the first time in any Q3. This downturn in shipments is largely attributed to memory shortages affecting supply for most manufacturers, coupled with higher phone prices that are impacting consumers' purchasing decisions.