Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) strengthened its position in the U.S. smartphone market during the first quarter of 2026 as analysts at Counterpoint Research said delayed rival launches, stronger carrier performance, and pressure on lower-cost Android brands reshaped industry dynamics.
Apple Outperformed A Weak Smartphone Market Counterpoint Research noted on Tuesday that Apple’s U.S. iPhone sales volume rose 1.3% year over year in the first-quarter of 2026, while the broader U.S. smartphone market declined 5.7%
The firm said Apple’s market share by volume increased 4% year over year as Android device sales dropped 14.4%. Analysts attributed Apple’s gains to strong demand for the iPhone 17 lineup, particularly the base iPhone 17 model, as well as lingering demand following supply shortages in late 2025. Senior Analyst Tyler Graham said Apple also benefited from Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (OTC:SSNLF) delaying the Galaxy S26 launch until mid-March, which temporarily reduced competition in the premium smartphone segment.
Analysts Say Delayed Samsung Launch Helped Apple Graham said the U.S. premium smartphone market remains highly concentrated among Apple, Samsung, Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOGL) Google, and Motorola, so delays from one major brand can create openings for competitors. He said Apple capitalized on Samsung’s delayed flagship rollout and expanded its share across all three major U.S. wireless carriers during the quarter. Apple’s share grew the most at Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ), reaching 77% in the first quarter of 2026.