The iPhone 17 has had a far greater impact on the global smartphone market than many assume.
According to ITNA reporting from PhoneArena, based on Counterpoint Research's analysis of Q2 2026, the iPhone 17 has claimed the title of the world's best-selling smartphone-a success that carries special significance given current market conditions.
In the global ranking, the iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone 17 Pro are ranked second and third, respectively. Thus, Apple has created a complete dominance of the top three positions in the global smartphone market in Q2 2026. The iPhone 17e model has also helped strengthen Apple's position in the global market.
The importance of this success becomes clearer when considering the overall market situation. According to Counterpoint Research, the global smartphone market contracted by 11 percent in Q2 2026. Rising component prices, especially for RAM, have put heavy pressure on manufacturers and pushed many companies to focus more on premium products.
In such conditions, the success of the iPhone 17 shows that Apple has been able to maintain the value proposition of its products and even capture a significant share of demand during a market downturn.
Samsung also had an important performance in this period. Although none of the company's phones made the top three overall, the Galaxy S26 Ultra managed to become the best-selling Android phone in the world. This is the first time a flagship Android phone has topped Android device sales in a June quarter.
Overall, Apple and Samsung together accounted for 26 percent of global smartphone shipments in Q2 2026-a figure that represents a 2 percent increase compared to the same period last year.
If the current trend continues, it is likely that Apple and Samsung will also control a large portion of the smartphone market in 2027; a development that could further narrow competition in the market.