Smartphone Prices Soar: Budget Models Vanish by 2026, Report Warns

• Smartphones, especially budget models, are set to become significantly more expensive by 2026, as per Counterpoint Research.
• Global smartphone shipments are projected to fall by 2.1% in 2026 due to rising component costs.
• Manufacturing costs for phones under $200 have surged 20-30%, leading brands to cut back on affordable options.
• Memory price hikes (up to 40% by Q2 2026) will further increase production costs for all segments.
• Average selling prices are expected to rise by nearly 7%, with fewer entry-level devices from brands like HONOR, OPPO, and vivo.

Why It Matters: Expect higher smartphone prices and fewer budget options by 2026 due to rising manufacturing costs.