Counterpoint Research forecasts global flat-panel display (FPD) shipments will
fall 4.7% YoY in 2026. A sharp rise in memory prices, driven by strong AI
data-center demand, is being passed through to device prices and is suppressing
demand in key FPD applications, notably smartphones and tablets. Phone panel
shipments are projected to decline 9.5% YoY in 2026. Research director Brien
said high memory costs are forcing OEMs to raise end-product prices, denting
demand in mid-to-low-end smartphone and PC segments as brands can no longer
maintain aggressive pricing; consumers are delaying purchases or shifting to the
secondary market. In IT, robust H1 shipments mean 2026’s decline will be
smaller, but the downtrend is expected to continue into 2027.
