According to Apple's iPhone sales fell by more than 17%, dragging down the Cupertino company's overall net profit, which fell by almost 10%. This happened against the backdrop of a 7 percent drop in the smartphone market as a whole, according to statistics from the analytical company IDC.
According to forecasts from the same IDC, the first quarter of 2019 was the sixth quarter in a row when demand for smartphones declined. Its results, according to experts, are a sign that the entire 2019 will be a year of decline in global smartphone supplies. Moreover, a noticeable drop will be observed in the premium segment, which includes the iPhone. The main reason for this trend is considered to be the growth in performance and functionality of mid-price segment devices with a simultaneous increase in the cost of flagship models from famous manufacturers, including Apple, which in the most advanced versions sell for more than $1000.
All of the above means that hard times for Apple phones are probably just beginning. Fierce competition in the premium sector will also add fuel to the fire. In 2019, Android smartphone manufacturers are aiming to produce 5G devices and foldable gadgets that unfold from a phone into a tablet. Apple has nothing like this planned for this year. In addition, alternative solutions for placing front cameras are being actively sought, while, according to preliminary information, the iPhone of the 2019 model year will again receive the much-criticized βbangs.β
Apple's financial stability will not be strengthened by the once again shaky trade relations between the US and China. Last weekend, American President Donald Trump announced an increase from 10 to 25% of the customs tariff on products imported from China. The new rules will come into force on May 10, and in response to them, the Chinese side is considering the possibility of withdrawing from a new round of negotiations, which is due to take place this week in Washington.
Source: 3dnews.ru