An IDC report says the smartphone market is expected to decline by 0.9% in 2026, in part due to memory shortages and surging component prices. According to IDC, the average smartphone selling price is expected to rise to $465 in 2026, up from $457 in 2025.
Memory and other component price fluctuations aren’t new. But the ongoing memory price surge is set to cause an upheaval, with entry-level and budget-friendly Android smartphones likely to bear the brunt of the fallout. Memory prices are likely to rise 30% this quarter, and another 20% more early next year, on top of 50% price increases we’ve already seen this year, according to Counterpoint Research.
Counterpoint Research DRAM Price Scenario (DDR5 64GB RDIMM)
In markets where affordability and value are key factors behind smartphone purchase decisions, any unexpected price increases can have a significant impact. Which is why smartphone manufacturers are turning their focus to value, offering the most bang for your buck with your next buy.
And with segment-leading camera hardware and features, impressive performance, fantastic battery life, and a gorgeous design, the realme 16 Pro series is all set to be the value pick in 2026. Here’s what you need to know.
The realme 16 Pro series takes your smartphone camera experience to the next level
The only one with a 200MP + 3.5x Periscope camera in its segment
With its segment-defining 200MP LumaColor Camera, the realme 16 Pro series delivers crisp, clear, detailed, and color-rich photos and videos, no matter the lighting conditions or where you are.
Featuring the flagship 200MP Samsung HP5 sensor, you get ultra-high light intake, high dynamic range, full-pixel auto zoom, and support for Super OIS, along with a slew of segment-first image processing features. These include the new HyperRAW algorithm, an anti-distortion algorithm that addresses edge-person deformation, and the InstantSnap algorithm, which intelligently adjusts exposure time for clearer, more stable candid shots.
You’ll also get AI-powered features like Perfect Shot, which selects everyone’s best expressions from multiple photos to create the ideal group picture, and Ultra Clarity, which sharpens and enhances blurry group photos. Whether you’re taking pictures of the scenery, still life images, group photos, or capturing stage performances, you’ll get the perfect shot every time.
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