Editing Apple Inc. (section)

=== Challenges and Market Headwinds   ===
Apple faced significant challenges in 2013, including supply chain constraints, competitive pressures, and regulatory scrutiny. While not conclusively documented, supply chain issues likely impacted iPhone sales during critical periods such as Black Friday.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.imd.org/research-knowledge/operations/case-studies/apple-s-supply-chain-transformation/ |quote=Apple faced supply chain challenges in 2013, including constraints that impacted iPhone sales. }}</ref> Competitors like Samsung, which led the global smartphone market with Android-based devices capturing 81% of shipments, added to the pressure.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hivelr.com/2023/01/apple-inc-aapl-porters-five-forces-industry-and-competition-analysis/ |quote=Apple encountered competitive pressures in 2013 from Android-based devices and Samsung's growing market share. }}</ref>  

Apple’s response included the launch of the iPhone 5C, aimed at attracting emerging markets and first-time smartphone users.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://techcrunch.com/2013/09/17/iphone-5c-review-apple/ |quote=The iPhone 5C was part of Apple's strategy to attract more users with a colorful and lower-cost option. }}</ref> However, despite selling over 24 million units, the device underperformed relative to expectations, with critics questioning its market positioning and financial impact compared to the premium iPhone 5S.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/ewanspence/2014/06/16/the-iphone-5c-is-not-a-failure-but-this-myth-holds-an-ominous-warning-for-the-iwatch/ |quote=The iPhone 5C, released in 2013, sold over 24 million units but faced criticism for its market positioning. }}</ref> This misstep prompted Apple to reevaluate its product lineup and pricing strategies. Additionally, the company faced regulatory scrutiny, including antitrust investigations and patent disputes, which added complexity to its operations.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/adamthierer/2012/04/08/regulatory-anti-trust-and-disruptive-risks-threaten-apples-empire/ |quote=Apple faced regulatory challenges in 2013, including antitrust investigations and patent disputes. }}</ref>