New data released by Counterpoint Research shows that the premium smartphone market reached 29% of global sales in the first half of 2026. This segment, encompassing devices priced at $600 and above, saw a four-point increase compared to the same period last year.

Apple continues to maintain its leadership in this premium segment with a 65% market share. The company managed to increase its share this year from 63% in the first half of 2025.

iPhone 17 Series Increases Market Share

Counterpoint Research attributes Apple’s 9% year-on-year growth to the strong performance of the iPhone 17 series. In particular, the strong interest in the base model of the series enabled the company to reverse last year’s decline in the Chinese market, which was caused by competition.

Samsung maintains its stable position in the premium segment with a 19% market share. Samsung’s share, which was 17% in 2022, has shown a gradual increase since then.

Industry analysts state that rising memory and component costs are reshaping smartphone pricing. The increase in prices of mid-range Android devices is leading to a closing price gap with premium devices.

This situation is becoming a factor that makes it easier for consumers to move towards higher-end devices. Manufacturers continue to expand financing, trade-in, and buyback programs to support this transition.

The premiumization trend will continue.

Brands like Samsung are expanding programs like Galaxy Forever to different markets, making flagship devices more accessible. These financial supports offered by brands keep demand for premium smartphones alive.

Experts predict that the trend towards premium devices will continue in the coming period thanks to more consistent component supply and balanced consumer demand. The widespread availability of financing options plays a critical role in users choosing more expensive devices.

This overall market change directly affects manufacturers’ strategies. How do you think the growth of the premium segment in smartphones will affect the future of the mid-range segment?