预测：全球智能手机市场今年将萎缩13%，至11.2亿部

Core Viewpoint - The global smartphone market is projected to shrink by 12.9% in 2026 due to an unprecedented shortage of storage chips, reaching 1.12 billion units, marking the lowest annual shipment volume in over a decade [1][5]. Group 1: Market Impact - The most significant decline is expected in regions with a high concentration of low-end smartphones, with the Middle East and Africa experiencing a drop of 20.6% year-on-year [1][5]. - The two largest markets, China and the Asia-Pacific region (excluding China and Japan), are forecasted to decline by 10.5% and 13.1%, respectively [1][5]. - A mild recovery of 2% is anticipated in 2027, followed by a stronger rebound of 5.2% in 2028 [1][5]. Group 2: Industry Changes - The current crisis is expected to lead to significant changes in market size, average selling prices, and competitive dynamics by the time it ends [4][6]. - High-end smartphones, such as most models in Apple's iPhone lineup, are likely to better withstand the crisis, while some Android manufacturers have warned of potential price increases for consumers [4][7]. - The era of cheap smartphones is considered over, with IDC stating that the segment of smartphones priced below $100, which saw shipments of approximately 170 million units last year, is no longer profitable [5][7].