Apple and Samsung dominate the world’s best-selling smartphones, with the iPhone 17 leading the pack

Apple and Samsung have dominated the world's best-selling smartphones in Q2 2026, according to Counterpoint Research. The iPhone 17 topped the list, capturing 6% of global unit sales. Alongside the iPhone 17, Apple claimed three spots in the top 10 with the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. The Pro and Pro Max models leveraged trade-in deals, promotions, and financing options to make their premium pricing more appealing to customers.

Apple's iPhone 17e, featuring MagSafe support and increased storage at last year's price, also performed well in the US and Japan through carrier deals. Samsung matched Apple's success with five spots of its own, with the Galaxy S26 Ultra standing out as the best-selling Android phone in the quarter. This marked the first time an ultra-premium Android device topped the charts in a June quarter, with a five-spot increase over its predecessor due to its privacy display and AI features.

The Galaxy A series maintained its market position due to affordable pricing and Samsung's promise of six-plus years of software support. Together, Apple and Samsung claimed 26% of the global market during the quarter, the highest share yet for a June quarter. The smartphone industry is witnessing a shift towards fewer, stronger devices due to a global RAM shortage.

Google's Pixel 11 Pro XL was reviewed, but concerns arose over its reduced physical battery capacity from 5,200mAh to 5,115mAh. Despite Google's AI advancements, battery life remains a crucial benchmark in the Android world. Apple's AI push has reached its devices, but notable devices like the Apple TV and HomePod are yet to receive Apple Intelligence features.

Apple is set to unveil its plans with the upcoming Fall launch event on September 9th at the Steve Jobs Theater.