Global smartphone shipments grew 2.6% in the third quarter this year, fueled by strong consumer demand for premium and AI-enabled devices, according to preliminary data from the International Data Corporation on Monday.

Why it’s important

Demand for smartphones has been resilient despite economic uncertainty and tariff challenges, boosted by premium features, favorable pricing models and promotional trade-in deals that make the upgrading decision a “no-brainer” for most customers.

“The smartphone industry continues its upward trajectory, posting solid growth – a remarkable achievement given persistent economic uncertainty and tumultuous tariff dynamics,” said Nabila Popal, senior research director for Worldwide Client Devices, IDC.

“Demand for Apple ’s new iPhone 17 lineup was robust

See Full Page