However, Apple and Samsung are facing growing competition, particularly in China, where domestic brands such as Huawei, Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo are gaining market share with their own premium smartphones. Apple’s share of the premium segment fell from 74% in the first half of 2022 to 65% in the first half of 2026.
Oppo recorded particularly strong growth, with the Chinese smartphone maker increasing its premium sales by 69% in the first half of 2026. Counterpoint identifies the Find X9 series as the main driver. Vivo also achieved 20% growth with the X300 series.
Counterpoint expects the shift toward more expensive smartphones to continue. Manufacturers are increasingly using trade-in programs, financing options, and buyback schemes to make premium devices more accessible. At the same time, analysts say many consumers are more willing to invest in higher-quality devices because they keep their smartphones for longer.