Global smartphone shipments rose by 2.6% in the third quarter of 2025, according to preliminary data from the International Data Corporation (IDC).
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IDC attributed this growth to increased demand for advanced devices equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. Despite economic uncertainties and challenges from tariffs, demand for smartphones remained strong, driven by sophisticated features, attractive pricing, and promotional trade-in offers that make upgrading a “no-brainer” for most consumers.
Upward Trajectory
Nabila Boubal, Research Director for IDC’s Worldwide Client Devices, said, “The smartphone sector continues its upward trajectory, recording robust growth—an impressive achievement amid ongoing economic uncertainty and tariff fluctuations.”
Q3 shipments reached 322.7 million units, with Apple achieving its best-ever performance over the three months ending in September, while Samsung posted its strongest Q3 shipment growth in history, according to IDC.
Positive Outlook and Fierce Competition
Francisco Geronimo, Vice President of Smart Devices at IDC, noted: “Demand was strong for Apple’s new iPhone 17 series, with pre-orders surpassing those of the previous generation. At the same time, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 outperformed all previous foldable models, reinvigorating the foldable category.”
Samsung maintained its top position with 61.4 million units shipped during the quarter, while Apple’s shipments grew by nearly 3% to reach 58.6 million units.
IDC maintains a positive outlook for the remainder of 2025, anticipating strong year-end sales driven by heavy promotions, expanded AI capabilities, and continued device innovation.
Industry analysts expect 2026 to be a pivotal year for foldable smartphones, as the technology transitions from experimental to mainstream. This growth will be supported by technological maturity, increased consumer adoption, and entry of major global players, including Apple and Samsung, into the foldable market.
