A new analytical report states that worldwide smartphone shipments declined 9.7% year over year to 301.9 million units in the third quarter of 2022 (3Q22). The drop marks the largest-ever third quarter decline and the fifth consecutive quarter of decline for the smartphone market as shipments continue to struggle amidst weakened global demand and economic uncertainties.

Four of the smartphone leaders were down for the quarter including Chinese vendors vivo and OPPO that had Year-over-Year drops of more than 22% each.

Apple was the only smartphone vendor to deliver growth of 1.6% and grew their market share from 15.3% to 17.2% as presented in the IDC chart below.

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IDC now expects a steeper shipment decline for 2022 and a softer recovery in 2023.

 Ryan Reith, group vice president with IDC's Worldwide Mobile and Consumer Device Trackers: "Developed markets that often sell more premium devices are faring better than emerging markets where smartphones sell for a fraction of the cost. We believe this is largely supported by the expansion of installment plans offered through telcos, retail channels, and even direct from vendors. Promotional activity around trade-in offers also supports that shift. However, as we look toward next year and beyond, if the global market is going to grow, it will need a strong recovery in emerging markets to make that happen." For more, read the full IDC report.

Apple's strengh is in the premium smartphone space with a stronger presence in developed markets.

It should be noted that Strategy Analytics reported on Global Q3-22 smartphone shipments as well, claiming that Apple delivered 6.4% YoY growth while the report from Canalys claimed that Apple delivered 8% growth. And lastly, Counterpoint's report claimed Apple delivered 2% growth.