Global Smartphone Shipments Slow in Q2 Amid Tariff Uncertainty

Global smartphone shipments grew just 1% in the second quarter, reaching 295.2 million units, as economic uncertainty driven by U.S. tariffs dampened consumer spending, particularly on low-end devices.

Credit: APPLE

The growth rate slowed from the 1.5% recorded in the previous quarter, according to preliminary data released by research firm International Data Corp (IDC) on Monday.

Demand in China declined during the April to June period, with subsidies failing to boost sales. Apple saw a 1% drop in shipments in the region.

Overall, consumers have deprioritised smartphone purchases, especially in the budget segment. Sellers have responded by pushing higher-priced models and integrating artificial intelligence features into more affordable devices to offset the slowdown in unit sales.

Samsung recorded the highest growth among smartphone makers, with shipments rising 7.9% to 58 million units.

Credit: APPLE

Apple maintained its position as the second-largest smartphone seller, with a 1.5% increase in shipments.

IDC noted that economic and political challenges, including the impact of war and tariffs, continue to affect the market. However, the modest growth signals a potential return to stability.

In May, IDC revised its 2025 global smartphone shipment growth forecast down to 0.6% from 2.3%, citing ongoing tariff-related uncertainty and reduced consumer spending.

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• Global smartphone shipments rose 1% in Q2 to 295.2 million units

• Growth slowed from 1.5% in the previous quarter

• Samsung led with 7.9% growth; Apple shipments rose 1.5%

Source: REUTERS