Investing.com -- Global smartphone shipments dropped 11% in the second quarter to the lowest level for that period since 2013, driven by a memory chip shortage that pushed up handset prices and reduced consumer demand, according to early estimates from Counterpoint Research.

Apple increased shipments by 3% during the quarter, reaching a record 20% global market share. The company maintained stable demand for its premium iPhone lineup by keeping prices unchanged. Analysts anticipate price increases in the coming months.

Memory prices continued to rise as suppliers focused on AI data center customers instead of consumer electronics. This shift forced manufacturers to increase component costs for consumers, particularly affecting entry-level and mid-range devices.

Samsung returned to the top position with a 24% market share. The company benefited from strong sales of its Galaxy S26 series flagship phones, improved product availability, and smaller price increases in markets including India and the Middle East.

Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo recorded the largest shipment declines among the top five smartphone makers. The three companies have greater exposure to entry-level and mid-range devices.

Counterpoint Research maintained its forecast for global smartphone shipments to decline approximately 14% this year. The firm stated the memory shortage will likely continue into 2027.