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DigiTimes
Global smartphone industry, 1Q 2026
In the first quarter of 2026, global smartphone shipments dropped by 5.6% year-over-year to 278.3 million units due to surging memory prices. Consequently, Chinese smartphone manufacturers reduced shipment volumes of lower-end models, leading to increased product prices. As the memory prices continue to rise, projections indicate a further 10% decline in shipments for the second quarter.
MonitorConfidence: MediumShort term horizonSupply chain risk: High
Published 11 Jun 2026, 08:21 UTC1 min read
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Summary
TL;DR
- Global smartphone shipments fell 5.6% year-over-year in Q1 2026.
- Chinese smartphone makers reduced shipments of mid- to low-end models.
- Rising memory prices are anticipated to persist into the second quarter.
- Forecasts for China's shipments were revised upwards to 72 million units.
- Second-quarter shipments in China expected to drop by 5.4%.
Interesting facts
- Despite an overall downturn, China's shipment forecast was revised upwards for Q1.
- The continued rise in memory prices is expected to impact the market significantly.