Global Handset Unit Sales Grow Just 5% In Q3

Global mobile phone unit sales grew a disappointing 5% in the third quarter, according to research firm Strategy Analytics . It was the weakest quarter for the industry since 2002. The firm noted that four of the top six vendors grew at a 5% rate or less; Apple (AAPL) and Samsung outpaced the market. Nokia (NOK) shipped 118 million handsets, up 5%. The company lost market share in all regions, with smartphones “a major weak spot.” Samsung shipped 52 million handsets, up 22%. It’s market share reached an all-time high at 17%, up from 3% in 1998. The company was strong in North America and Western Europe, weaker in emerging markets. Sony Ericsson ( SNE , ERIC ) shipped 25.7 million handsets, down 1%. With a 5% sequential increase, the company passed LG and Motorola (MOT) to become the the third largest company in the industry by units. Motorola shipped 25.4 million units, down 32%. “Volume and value for Motorola remain very weak, with shipments ... (link)