HTC did well with its HTC One M8 smartphone and now according to a recent report, sales of the handset’s successor, the HTC One M9, are lower than expected.
The news comes from HTC’s supply chain, indicating that HTC may lower their orders of components for their HTC One M9 smartphone by around 30%.
HTC may cut its orders for related parts and components for its flagship smartphone, the HTC One M9, by as much as 30% due to lower-than-expected sales for the model in the end-market, according to sources at Taiwan’s handset supply chain.
Possible Reasons for Lower Sales
HTC has yet to announce any sales figures for its new One M9 smartphone. One possible reason for lower sales of the handset could be the display resolution. The handset has a Full HD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, whereas many of its competitors feature a Quad HD display. In today’s competitive smartphone market, display quality can be a significant factor for consumers when choosing a new device.
Another factor that could be affecting sales is the incremental nature of the upgrades from the HTC One M8 to the HTC One M9. While the M9 does offer improvements, such as a better camera and a faster processor, these changes may not be enough to entice current M8 users to upgrade. Additionally, the design of the M9 is quite similar to its predecessor, which might not attract new customers looking for a fresh look.
Impact of the HTC One M9+
HTC recently launched a Quad HD version of the device for the Chinese market, the HTC One M9+, and this could have also impacted the sales of the HTC One M9. The M9+ not only features a higher resolution display but also includes a fingerprint sensor and a slightly larger screen. These additional features make the M9+ a more attractive option for consumers, potentially diverting sales away from the standard M9 model.
Moreover, the timing of the M9+ release could have played a role. If consumers were aware that a more advanced version of the M9 was on the horizon, they might have opted to wait for the M9+ rather than purchasing the M9 immediately. This anticipation could have led to a decrease in initial sales for the M9.
Market Competition and Consumer Preferences
The smartphone market is highly competitive, with numerous manufacturers vying for consumer attention. Brands like Samsung, Apple, and LG have released flagship models with cutting-edge technology and innovative features. For instance, Samsung’s Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge, which were released around the same time as the HTC One M9, boast Quad HD displays, advanced cameras, and unique design elements like the curved screen on the S6 Edge. These features can make competing devices more appealing to potential buyers.
Consumer preferences are also shifting towards devices that offer more than just incremental upgrades. Users are looking for significant improvements in performance, design, and functionality. In this context, the HTC One M9 may have struggled to stand out, especially when compared to its more feature-rich competitors.
Future Prospects for HTC
Despite the lower-than-expected sales of the HTC One M9, HTC remains a respected player in the smartphone industry. The company has a history of innovation and quality, and it continues to develop new products to meet consumer demands. Moving forward, HTC may need to focus on differentiating its devices through unique features, cutting-edge technology, and competitive pricing.
Additionally, expanding its presence in emerging markets could provide new growth opportunities. By offering a range of devices that cater to different price points and consumer needs, HTC can attract a broader audience and potentially boost its sales figures.
Source Digitimes, Phone Arena
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