Coverage· Apple· Published Aug 20, 2026

Apple pulls level with Samsung in Europe’s declining smartphone market

Europe’s smartphone market shipped 35 million units in Q2 2026, down 10% year over year and its weakest second quarter in three years. Apple’s iPhone share rose to match Samsung’s.

Coverage

DNA Brief

Signal Summary

Counterpoint Research data shows Apple catching Samsung as the European market contracted, although the source does not provide either company’s exact share. Globally, Apple accounted for 49% of smartphone revenue in the second quarter, while iPhones represented 23% of shipments; the source does not identify the year for those global figures.

Why It Matters

Apple reaching parity with Samsung changes the competitive picture in Europe, but it happened during a 10% year-over-year shipment decline. The result points to stronger relative performance for Apple without indicating that the overall regional market is growing.

Evidence

Start with the primary evidence, then review supporting sources and context.

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Primary Evidence

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  • AppleInsiderDocumentOriginal

    Samsung and Apple are now neck and neck in Europe's declining smartphone market

    William Gallagher <wg@williamgallagher.com>

    “European sales of smartphones have reached a new three-year low, but Apple's iPhone has increased its share to now tie with Samsung. Apple's current iPhones. Globally, the most recent figures show that Apple has earned 49% of all smartphone revenue in the second quarter, despite the iPhone only accounting for 23% of shipments.…”