Apple earned nearly half of all global smartphone revenue

In the second quarter of 2026, Apple captured a record 49% of global smartphone revenue. This was reported by 9to5Mac, citing a Counterpoint Research study.

Financial results

Apple's smartphone revenue grew 22% compared to the same period last year — the company's best performance for a second quarter. Overall, the global smartphone market increased revenue by 7%, and Apple posted the highest growth rate among the top five manufacturers.

The average selling price of an iPhone rose over the year from $879 to $946.

Shipment market share

Apple also increased its share of global smartphone shipments from 17% to 21% — a record for the second quarter. Despite the growth, the company remained in second place in shipment volume, behind Samsung with a 23% share.

The other top five manufacturers all saw their shares decline. The most noticeable drop was at Xiaomi — from 14% to 11%, with shipments down 26%.

Why Apple strengthened its position

Analysts note that the memory chip shortage forced many manufacturers to raise prices due to rising component costs. Apple largely kept its iPhone lineup prices unchanged. This strengthened its market position and contributed to sales growth, especially in China, Europe, and emerging markets.

Counterpoint Research expects the company may also raise prices in the coming quarters.

In brief

In the second quarter of 2026, Apple captured 49% of global smartphone revenue — a record high. The company's revenue grew 22%, and its shipment share increased to 21%. Samsung remained the leader in shipment volume. Apple's growth was driven by the fact that it held prices steady longer than others amid the memory shortage and rising component costs.