Strategy Analytics forecasts global smartphone user base will grow +18% from 2021 to 2026, and the smartphone penetration rate will continue to increase during our forecast window.

In the short run, the growth is driven by the basic need of work/study from home model after the pandemic. In the longer run, the penetration will grow driven by emerging markets like Brazil, India, Russia, etc where the market is not saturated, smartphone penetration is low, and smartphone adoption is taking place at a faster rate from feature phone users.

Africa and Middle East will enjoy the highest growth rate, followed by Asia Pacific and Central Eastern Europe. North America and Western Europe will maintain the leadership by penetration rate.

For more detailed insights for 88 countries’ dynamics, WSS clients can find it in our latest report Global Smartphone User Penetration Forecast by 88 Countries: 2007 – 2026 via this link.