iPhone 17 Leads Global Smartphone Sales in Q2 2026

Apple secured the top spot in global smartphone sales for the second quarter of 2026, with the iPhone 17 emerging as the world's best-selling model. According to Counterpoint Research, the device captured 6% of global unit sales, leading a strong performance that saw Apple occupy five of the top 10 global positions. The iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone 17 Pro ranked second and third, while the iPhone 17e and the older iPhone 16 placed seventh and tenth, respectively.

Apple's unit sales grew 5% year-over-year, a notable increase given that the overall smartphone market declined by 11%. This growth was most pronounced in South Korea, where sales nearly doubled, as well as in India, Japan, and the Middle East and Africa. The company's success was driven by significant upgrades to the base iPhone 17 and sustained demand for premium Pro models, aided by financing and trade-in programs.

Samsung Electronics also maintained a strong presence, holding five spots in the top 10, including the Galaxy S26 Ultra 5G in fourth place. Market dynamics shifted toward premium devices during this period, partly because a global shortage of RAM and other components forced competitors to increase their prices.