Mumbai, September 7 (Daily Kiran) : The global mobile industry is facing a significant challenge due to rising memory prices, leading to an approximate 40% increase in smartphone costs in 2026. This information comes from a recent report by Counterpoint.
According to the report, the average retail price of smartphones has risen by 15% worldwide this year, with some models seeing their prices nearly double. This surge is largely attributed to companies passing on the increased memory costs to consumers.
Markets that are sensitive to price changes are experiencing more pressure compared to premium segments. New smartphones are being launched at higher prices than their predecessors, indicating a substantial shift in the pricing landscape.
The report highlights that markets most affected by these price increases include India, which saw a rise of 21%, followed by the Asia-Pacific region at 19%, and the Middle East and Africa at 18%.
In contrast, the growth in premium markets has been less pronounced, with increases of 10% in China, 7% in Europe, and 5% in the United States, primarily driven by new product launches.
Tarun Pathak, Research Director at Counterpoint, stated that the rise in memory prices has become a key factor in increasing smartphone costs, leaving companies with limited options to absorb these additional expenses.
The impact is particularly noticeable in price-sensitive markets, where average prices have surged by 16% to 21%, making it increasingly difficult for consumers to purchase devices. In response, many customers are delaying upgrades, shopping during major sales, or opting for older models. In markets where premium devices are more common, financing and trade-in offers are helping to mitigate the effects of rising prices.
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