Based on the data from International Data Corp., the Philippines’ smartphone market declined for the fifth consecutive quarter in the third quarter of 2022 (3Q22). Smartphone shipments in the country are down by 8% Quarter-on-Quarter (QoQ) and 6.8% annually, bringing in 3.9 million units in 3Q22.

“The Philippine smartphone market quickly shrank in the third quarter as inflation accelerated, further aggravated by recent typhoons, hurting both consumers and vendors,” said Angela Medez, Senior Market Analyst at IDC Philippines. “Vendors took a more conservative approach by clearing inventories, maintaining prices of existing models, and sustaining momentum by bringing in more affordable smartphones.”

PH smartphone market declines for four consecutive quarter — IDC
Smartphone shipments in PH declined by 7.1% in 1Q22 — IDC

The ultra low-end (or priced lower than $100) brand grew 20.7% QoQ and 21.3% Year-on-Year (YoY) in 3Q22 due to aggressive pushes by vendors such as realme with its Narzo series, as well as Infinix with its Smart and Hot Play series, all aimed at targeting the entry-level market as consumers sought cheaper options.

“The last quarter of the year is the peak sales period for smartphones, buoyed by holiday buying. But as inflation is expected to linger and peak towards the end of year, we anticipate an annual shipment decline toward the end of 2022 as vendors will lower targets for the upcoming holiday season by controlling inventories and increasing prices for newer models to counter the depreciating currency,” Medez said.