Unlike its other competitors, Apple does not roll out multiple smartphones in different shapes and sizes for different market segments. This leads to a lot of enthusiasm for the release of the next Apple iPhone. But this time, things are a little different. Consumer expectations have been steadily increasing and the competition has become cut throat. Will the next-generation iPhone bring about the usual success? Or will it be a flop? And will it, for the first time, make Apple executives sit up and wonder where they went wrong?

There a few reasons this time around why the market is not in a favourable condition for the new smartphone. This could unduly affect the sales of a perfectly good smartphone.

Reason # 1: Apple comes with a standard 4-inch design. There is also some talk by analysts that there is going to be further standardisation in the smartphone category. Consumers today have been spoilt for choice with manufacturers coming out with varied-sized smartphones. People can choose from a 4-inch screen or 5-, 6-, or even a 7-inch screen phablets. Manufacturers are also experimenting with various materials to give the phones a distinct look. Customers may find the standard design of the iPhone 6 a little boring.

Reason # 2: The problem with the premium segment of the smartphone market is that over the years, due to the popularity and usefulness of the device, smartphones have proliferated. Experts now feel that smartphone sales have now reached a peak. Although market prediction is not always accurate, it is common sense to note that a person who has bought a new smartphone will not trade it in for a new one every year.

Reason # 3: The manufacturers initially focussed on providing the best user experience with the best possible features to sell their smartphones. Then came the price factor. Now many Chinese companies are competing with both price and good features. There are also many copy cat brands in the market. The competition has become cut throat with premium brands like Sony and Samsung launching new products just days before the Sept. 10 Apple event.

Reason # 4: The world economy may not be so conducive for the launch of new products. There is saturation in the American and European markets. Emerging markets like Brazil and India are facing currency problems. Importing goods can be a costly affair to the people living in emerging markets.

So, will Apple overcome the odds? Will the features of the iPhone 6 dazzle everyone enough to impact sales or will this be the time that an iPhone will be a flop?