Global Smartphone Market Rebounds with 2.6% Growth in Q3 2025, Led by Premium and AI Devices
Global smartphone shipments ROSE 2.6% year-on-year in Q3 2025, reaching 322.7 million units, according to IDC data. The rebound reflects renewed consumer demand for premium devices and AI-enabled features, overcoming persistent economic headwinds.
Samsung dominated the market with 61.4 million shipments—its strongest September quarter on record. The success of its Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 foldables signals growing appetite for innovative form factors. Apple followed closely, buoyed by record iPhone 17 pre-orders that exceeded analyst expectations.
Market resilience stems from aggressive promotional campaigns and the integration of generative AI capabilities across flagship devices. Analysts project sustained growth through 2025 as manufacturers compete on both hardware differentiation and AI-powered software experiences.