The smartphone market is experiencing a period of renewed growth and transformation based on 2025 – 2026 industry data.
Key trends indicate that while penetration rates are high, the market is shifting toward AI-native capabilities and a ‘premiumisation’ strategy which is boosting average selling prices.
Analysts say 2026 will be defined by camera innovation, battery advancements, AI integration, and not just raw raw performance figures.
Global smartphone shipments grew for the second consecutive year in 2025, with 2 percent growth, according to preliminary estimates from Counterpoint Research’s Market Monitor.
The market growth momentum throughout 2025 was primarily driven by premiumisation facilitated by financing options and effective marketing, and the increasing adoption of 5G devices in emerging markets.
“In 2025, the smartphone market continued its gradual shift toward higher price tiers, driven by consumers upgrading to premium devices. Concurrently, demand for 5G handsets rose sharply across developing regions,” Shilpi Jain, senior analyst at Counterpoint Research said.
Tarun Pathak, research director at Counterpoint Research stated that, “The global smartphone market is set to soften in 2026 amid DRAM/NAND shortages and rising component costs, as chipmakers prioritise AI data centers over smartphones.
“Price hikes in smartphones have already begun to surface. Against this backdrop, we have revised our forecast for 2026 by reducing shipment estimates by 3 percent.
“Though the supply crunch will weigh on shipments, Apple and Samsung are likely to remain resilient, supported by stronger supply chain capabilities and premium market positioning, whereas Chinese OEMs concentrated in lower‑price segments will face greater pressure,” Pathak stated.
Here are the top 10 trending phones in February:
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
Samsung’s anticipated flagship has shot to the top of trending charts ahead of its official launch, dominating search interest and consumer anticipation worldwide.
Reports said its features include major camera upgrades, improved hardware and privacy enhancements.
iPhone 17 Pro Max
iPhone 17 Pro Max is crowned one of the best overall smartphones in expert tests.
Apple’s latest Pro Max model continues to trend thanks to its powerful A-series chip, outstanding display, and balanced performance across tasks, according to Tom’s Guide.
Apple iPhone 16
Apple iPhone 16 has remained the best-selling favourite in markets like India, driven by strong promotions and consistent consumer demand, according to The Times of India.
The Apple iPhone 16 was the best-selling smartphone in India in 2025, with approximately 6.5 million units sold between Jan-Nov, defying the market’s usual preference for, lower-cost, mid-range phones.
Infinix Note 60 Pro
Infinix Note 60 Pro is an infinix mid-range contender which is gaining attractionfor bringing a Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset and high refresh-rate display to a price-competitive tier, along with satellite communications support.
Vivo V70 Elite
The launched Vivo V70 Elite is trending globally for blending premium design, ZEISS-tuned cameras and strong battery life especially appealing in the mid-range segment.
Google Pixel 10a
The recently unveiled Google Pixel 10a (announced February 18, 2026, and launching on March 5, 2026) is drawing significant attention as a $499 budget-friendly device that brings flagship-style AI and performance features to the mid-range market.
It is positioned as the most durable A-series phone yet, with enhanced display, camera, and AI capabilities
Nothing Phone 3 Pro
The Nothing Phone (3a) Pro (released March 2025) is a mid-range, praised for excellent battery endurance and well-rounded specs.
The Nothing Phone 3 Pro continues its popularity streak into 2026 as a standout choice for users prioritising longevity.
Samsung Galaxy A56
The Samsung Galaxy A56 5G (released March 2025) is a premium mid-range smartphone which continues to trend nearly a year after release.
It remains a strong everyday smartphone thanks to balanced performance and affordability.
OnePlus 15
The OnePlus 15 is a high-performance, gaming-focused flagship released in late 2025 (globally Nov 13).
The phone is celebrated for delivering flagship-grade specs and robust performance without the Ultra price tag.
Oppo Find X9 Pro
The Oppo Find X9 Pro (released late 2025) is a premium flagship featuring a MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset.
While not as universally known as some competitors, the Oppo Find X9 Pro is garnering attention for its massive silicon-carbon battery and multi-day life in real use which is a trend gaining traction in 2026.
