While the US smartphone market experienced a downturn in early 2026, Apple managed to buck the trend and grow its iPhone sales, thanks largely to the success of the iPhone 17 and a delayed launch from a key competitor. The following questions and answers break down the key findings from a recent Counterpoint report.

How did iPhone sales perform in the US during the first quarter of 2026?

iPhone sales in the United States rose by 1.3% year over year during Q1 2026, according to Counterpoint's US Monthly Smartphone Channel Share Tracker. This growth stands in stark contrast to the broader market trends. The increase was driven by strong consumer demand for the iPhone 17 lineup, particularly the base model, and was also aided by the delayed launch of Samsung's Galaxy S26 series.

How did the overall US smartphone market perform in Q1 2026?

The total US smartphone market contracted significantly in the first quarter, declining by 5.7% compared to the same period in 2025. The Android segment faced an even steeper drop, with sales falling by 14.4% year over year. Apple's performance was thus a notable outlier, as it gained market share while its primary competitors struggled.

What factors contributed to Apple's growth despite the market decline?

Apple's growth can be attributed to two main factors: strong demand for the iPhone 17 and supply constraints from late 2025. The base iPhone 17 model saw higher-than-expected sales in Q1 2026. Additionally, supply shortages during the 2025 holiday quarter meant that many consumers who wanted an iPhone couldn't get one until early 2026, effectively extending the sales season. Samsung's Galaxy S26 launch being delayed also reduced competitive pressure.

How did Apple's market share change across US carriers?

Apple gained market share across all three major US carriers: AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. The most dramatic shift occurred at Verizon, where Apple's share of smartphone sales reached 77% in Q1 2026. This indicates strong carrier partnerships and consumer preference for iPhones over Android devices on these networks.

What role did the base iPhone 17 model play in the sales success?

According to Counterpoint, the base iPhone 17 model saw stronger demand than expected during the quarter. This suggests that Apple's strategy of offering a more affordable entry point in the lineup resonated with budget-conscious consumers, especially in a market where overall spending on smartphones was declining. The base model helped capture upgrades from older iPhones and some Android switchers.

How did supply constraints from late 2025 affect iPhone demand into 2026?

Supply constraints during the 2025 holiday quarter limited iPhone availability, meaning many customers had to wait until early 2026 to purchase their devices. This carryover demand extended the iPhone lineup's sales momentum well into the first calendar quarter of 2026. As a result, Apple benefited from a backlog that smooth out typical seasonal dips.