Although Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra model increased its sales, it could not enter the top 10

The first quarter smartphone sales data of 2026 shared by Counterpoint Research revealed that Samsung’s flagship model Galaxy S26 Ultra had a stronger start than the previous generation. Despite this, the device failed to rank among the top 10 best-selling smartphones in the world in the first three months of the year. Apple models and affordable Android phones were again at the top of the list. In particular, the standard iPhone 17 model attracted attention, accounting for 6 percent of global smartphone sales alone. According to the research company, the share of the top 10 models in total sales reached 25 percent, and this rate was recorded as the highest first quarter concentration ever.

According to Counterpoint’s assessment, the Galaxy S26 Ultra “narrowly” missed the top 10 list. The company states that the model showed a stronger first-term sales performance compared to its predecessor. One of the most striking innovations that Samsung featured in this model was the privacy-oriented display technology used for the first time in the industry. In addition, it is stated that the new artificial intelligence-supported features offered on the device have increased user interest. Samsung’s recent expansion of the productive artificial intelligence tools it offers under the umbrella of Galaxy AI seems to have found a positive response, especially among the upper segment user base.

iPhone models and affordable Android phones dominated the list

Looking at the overall year of 2025, it was seen that the Galaxy S25 Ultra ranked ninth on the list of best-selling phones worldwide. In addition, the device managed to rise to seventh place for a short time in the first quarter of last year. Although the Galaxy S26 Ultra increased its sales, it could not repeat the same success. Behind this situation lies not only Samsung’s performance but also the general concentration in the market. As the share of the top 10 models in total sales increases, the sales volume required to enter the list also increases significantly.

On the other hand, it seems that Apple continues to reach a wide user base, especially with its standard iPhone models. In addition, the high sales volume of entry and mid-segment Android phones in developing markets makes it more difficult for premium segment models to enter the top 10 list. While Samsung’s Ultra series generally remains in a more niche position due to its high price tag and limited user base, it is among the models that maintain the company’s visibility in the premium segment.

The increase in the first period sales performance of the Galaxy S26 Ultra reveals a positive picture for Samsung. However, the fact that sales in the global smartphone market are increasingly concentrated on fewer models continues to make it difficult for upper segment devices to enter the list. It is not considered a surprise that the Galaxy S26 Ultra is outside the top 10, especially considering the high volume achieved by Apple with its standard iPhone models and the impact of affordable Android devices in large markets. Despite this, the fact that the device has made a better start than its predecessor shows that user interest in Samsung’s flagship series continues.