Samsung Electronics is forecast to reclaim the top spot in the global smartphone market this year, overtaking US rival Apple as the latter faces weaker shipments and potential challenges surrounding its upcoming iPhone lineup, according to Counterpoint Research.
Samsung’s smartphone shipments are expected to rise 0.8% year-on-year in 2026 while Apple’s shipments are projected to decline 2.1%, Yonhap News Agency reported.
Counterpoint Research attributed Samsung’s stronger outlook to its broad product portfolio, geographically diversified operations, in-house component sourcing capabilities and robust carrier and distribution networks, which have helped the company navigate ongoing supply chain uncertainties.
Apple, meanwhile, could face potential price increases for its iPhone 18 series alongside changes to the launch schedules of individual models.
The company is also expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone in the third quarter of 2026. However, initial shipments are projected at only a few million units, limiting the device’s impact on Apple’s overall shipment performance this year.
The forecast marks a potential shift in the smartphone rankings after Apple took the global lead, with Samsung now positioned to regain the crown on the back of broader product coverage and more resilient supply chain capabilities.
