Global smartphone prices are on a steady upward path. The average selling price is expected to move from 370 dollars in 2025 to 412 dollars by 2029. That growth rate works out to around three percent a year.
At the same time, revenue from smartphones is forecast to expand faster than prices. By 2029, worldwide sales could reach 564 billion dollars, supported by a five percent annual growth rate, as highlighted by CounterPointResearch in its Market Outlook Tracker[1].
Signs of Normalization
The smartphone market is showing more stable behavior after years of disruption. Shipments in 2025 are on track to rise about 2.5 percent compared with the previous year. That pace is slightly higher than earlier projections but slower than initial hopes. Higher prices, supply realignments, and wider economic pressure are the main reasons. With prices moving up more quickly than shipments, overall revenue is gaining strength.
Regional Shifts
In North America, the average price is expected to climb seven percent in 2025. The push comes from premium models, strong promotions, and growing interest in foldables. Prices in the region may reach close to 984 dollars in 2026.
China is on a slower path. Forecasts suggest a 3.6 percent increase in 2025, led by brands such as Huawei, OPPO, and vivo. Apple’s performance in China has also improved, helped by Pro model sales.
India remains a mid-range market. Average prices are still below 250 dollars this year but should rise gradually, reaching about 287 dollars in 2029. The shift from feature phones and stronger demand outside major cities are shaping this trend.
Company Profiles
Apple continues to lead the premium segment. Its prices are projected to rise from 919 dollars in 2025 to nearly 1,000 dollars in 2029. The company is widening its base with cheaper models for emerging markets while keeping its high-end focus with Pro devices. Analysts also expect an extra lift in 2026 with Apple’s first foldable release.
Samsung holds a more stable profile. Weak flagship sales in early 2025 lowered its average, though foldables and AI features are expected to provide support in the longer term. Huawei has been regaining ground in China. With fewer supply problems, its premium Mate and P series are driving prices higher, supported by strong foldable sales.
Product and Technology Factors
Generative AI smartphones added 40 to 60 dollars to production costs in 2024 and 2025. That raised prices at first. In the longer term, the perceived value of AI features is likely to keep average prices high even as costs stabilize. Foldables, though still a small fraction of global shipments, are also influencing price levels and setting new expectations for premium devices.
Outlook
The industry is heading for modest but steady growth. Tariff risks have eased, supply chains are more stable, and demand for advanced features is holding firm. Together, these factors suggest smartphone prices will continue to climb through 2029 at a controlled pace, keeping the market on a firmer footing than in recent years.
Notes: This post was edited/created using GenAI tools.
Read next: YouTube Leads Streaming as Prime Video Rises, but Category Suffers First Decline Since February[2]
References
- ^ CounterPointResearch in its Market Outlook Tracker (counterpointresearch.com)
- ^ YouTube Leads Streaming as Prime Video Rises, but Category Suffers First Decline Since February (www.digitalinformationworld.com)