Global Smartphone Shipments Fall to 13‑Year Low in Q2 Amid Memory Chip Shortage

Reuters reports a sharp decline in global smartphone shipments for the second quarter of 2026. The volume reached the lowest point recorded in the past thirteen years. Analysts attribute the drop to a severe shortage of memory chips. Manufacturers have struggled to secure sufficient DRAM and NAND supplies. The chip scarcity has forced many firms to scale back output. Some brands are delaying new model launches to manage inventory. The slowdown highlights vulnerabilities in the supply chain. Industry watchers will monitor how the shortage resolves in the coming months.