Global phone shipments fell 20% from the third quarter of 2025 to their lowest third-quarter level in 14 years, according to Counterpoint Research.
The ongoing RAM shortage is pushing up prices and limiting component availability. It is disrupting manufacturers’ shipments, leaving some models in shorter supply and making upgrades less affordable for consumers.
Counterpoint also said consumers were “holding on to their devices longer than expected.” The report did not identify other reasons for the longer replacement cycle.
Samsung increased its market share to 23% despite a 3% year-over-year decline in shipments, according to the report. The gain appeared to be driven largely by the success of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8.
Apple’s market share rose to 22%, even as it sold fewer phones than in the same period last year. The company delayed its base iPhone 18 until next year.
Xiaomi, Oppo and Vivo recorded sharp shipment declines and lost market share, according to the report. Their share losses helped Apple and Samsung increase their portions of the market.
Tags: smartphones
