Will the Memory Shortage Hit Smartphone Sales in 2026?

According to a forecast released in February by the International Data Corporation, global smartphone sales could decline by around 13 percent this year. The main reason is the limited availability of memory chips, which has also led to rising component prices. As manufacturers face higher costs and tighter supply, production volumes are expected to be affected.

IDC anticipates that these supply constraints may persist until 2027. In response, some manufacturers may begin releasing new smartphones with less memory than consumers have grown accustomed to in recent years. Another likely effect is a reduced supply of lower-priced devices, as rising component costs make it more difficult for companies to offer affordable models.

Despite these challenges, the overall ranking of the leading smartphone manufacturers is unlikely to change significantly. Apple and Samsung are expected to remain at the top of the global market. While the South Korean giant held the lead between 2019 and 2022, iPhones have slightly outsold Samsung's smartphones worldwide in recent years.