Apple reportedly cuts iPhone 5C orders
Apple is said to be cutting its iPhone 5C orders amidst less than stellar demand for the mid-range smartphone.
There have been numerous reports of the iPhone 5C’s failure to impress consumers since its launch a month ago. Just last week we reported that analysts were slashing their sales predictions for the 5C, with shipments today said to be a third lower than expected.
Now sources are claiming that Apple itself has cut its supply orders for the iPhone 5C. According to the Wall Street Journal, Pegatron Corp. has been asked to reduce assembly quotas of the plastic smartphone by less than 20 percent, while Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. has done so by as much as a third.
It’s been speculated that this weak demand for the iPhone 5C is down to its uncompetitive price. Most were expecting the phone to be Apple’s first affordable iPhone, potentially selling for less than £300.
In the event, its £469 starting point makes it only slightly cheaper than the considerably more capable iPhone 5S at £549.
Speaking of which, the fortunes of Apple’s premium smartphone option are said to be in stark contrast to the iPhone 5C. The report claims that Apple has actually raised orders for the iPhone 5S in the fourth quarter following strong demand and widespread shortages.
Of course, such supply chain adjustments are common in the smartphone industry, but it’s this contrast between iPhone 5C and iPhone 5S supply that’s most telling.
Apple sold nine million of its new iPhones in their first weekend on sale, but it has been suggested by numerous sources that the premium iPhone 5S made up the vast majority of that number.
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Via: Reuters