Apple Boosts iPhone Production 20% as Global Smartphone Output Falls 1.7% in Q1

TrendForce data shows that worldwide smartphone production fell 1.7% in the first quarter of 2026, totaling 284 million units. Apple rose to the second‑largest producer with about 60.2 million iPhones made, a 19.7% year‑over‑year increase driven by strong demand for the iPhone 17e. Samsung remained the top maker, producing 62.6 million devices, up 2.3% YoY thanks to its Galaxy S26 launch. Other major manufacturers such as Oppo, Xiaomi, and Vivo each produced 20‑30 million units, while Transsion fell just outside the top five.

Analysts warn that the sector could contract further, projecting a 16.2% decline for the full year 2026, with total output around 1.051 billion units. Rising memory‑chip prices and dwindling low‑cost stockpiles are expected to pressure margins, especially for Chinese brands focused on entry‑level models. Apple appears insulated, having kept prices steady despite the component‑cost environment.