Soaring Memory Prices Threaten Budget Smartphones, Reshaping Global Market

Counterpoint Research projects global shipments of smartphones priced below $200 will fall about 40% between 2025 and 2030, a drop of more than 230 million units, as AI-driven memory demand raises component costs. Premium models are forecast to grow at a 7% CAGR, while third-quarter shipments already fell 20% year over year to their lowest level since 2012.

• Sub-$200 smartphone shipments to fall 40% by 2030
• Premium segment forecast to grow at 7% CAGR
• Q3 shipments dropped 20% YoY, lowest since 2012
• Global smartphone retail prices rose about 20% this year