# This drop was attributed to memory component shortages and Middle East tensions affecting consumer.

*business · news · 2026-04-11 · The Economic Times*

## Key points

- Apple led global smartphone shipments in Q1 2026 with a 21% market share.
- Apple's China smartphone sales surged 23% in the first nine weeks of 2026.
- Overall smartphone shipments declined 6% due to memory shortages and Middle East tensions.
- Memory suppliers prioritized AI data centers over consumer electronics, impacting smartphone availability.
- Samsung's shipments fell 6% year-on-year, partly due to a delayed Galaxy S26 launch.

**Companies:** Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi
**Countries:** China

[Read the full story on The Economic Times](https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/business/apple-sails-through-market-slump-claims-top-spot/articleshow/130184693.cms)

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