Smartphone shipments just had their worst third quarter since 2012, and the AI boom is a big reason why.

Counterpoint Research's early estimates show global shipments fell 20% from a year ago, as AI data centers soak up memory chips and drive costs up. Brands raised prices and cut volumes, and people are keeping their phones longer or buying refurbished. Samsung led with 23% share, while Apple hit 22%, its first time above 20% in a third quarter.


