The ongoing Corona virus epidemic has caused more harm to the Tech industry than any other uncertainties that have ever affected key players. The Virus which started in China has expanded to new countries, and this has forced Chinese manufacturers to back down on mass production.
In the smartphone industry, popular midrange brands like TECNO Mobile, Infinix, Oppo, Vivo, and Itel are set to launch fewer devices in 2020 with almost no release currently rumored in the first quarter.
On the other hand, high-end manufacturers like Huawei __that registered 2019 as its worst year are trying to cope up with the trend by creating regional assembly plants to launch Smartphones in those particular regions.
In Uganda, the fate of no mid-range releases in the first quarter has spiked an increase in market prices with no signs of when new lows will be met. However, the rumor mill has it that attempts are being made to launch new devices amidst the Corona Virus threats.
What you should do in preparation for the low-releases count
Since Chinese manufacturers rule the mid-range and partially the high-end Smartphones’ market. The Corona Virus statistics around the world will greatly impact on how Chinese exports can be accepted in Africa, and other regions across the world.
This means, if the outbreak continues to visit new countries, then you should prepare for the change. In this case, if you’re an upgrade junkie, It’s time you stick to your current Smartphone for the next few months.
In case you had plans to purchase a 2019 release like Infinix’s Hot 8 or TECNO’s Camon 12, then the best time to place your order is now before retail prices continue to rise.
All in all, Chinese assembled/manufactured smartphones are set to meet scarcity levels the more Corona Virus continues to spread. Hence, the next time you visit a Smartphone store and can’t find your favorite brand or meet an increase in the prices, then, buying a used device on a platform like Jiji could become your next choice.