It is now official that Apple’s big fall press event will be on September 10. On that day, Apple will reveal its new iPhone 5S and iPhone 5C smartphones. There is, as always, also still speculation surrounding other announcements Apple will make at the conference. Specifically, some type of smart watch reveal is expected, and new iPad and iPad Mini versions will probably show. The company could always announce a refresh of its Macbook or Mac Pro lineup, and the long-rumored Apple HDTV could also be revealed, though that’s unlikely.

With hype for Apple’s upcoming products as high as it has ever been, it’s not surprising that consumers are being patient with their purchases. DigiTimes Research today reported that iPhone shipments during the second quarter of 2013 declined 6.2 million units from the previous quarter. The falling shipments were accompanied by a revenue drop, down to only $18.2 billion during the second quarter.

While this trend would seem worrisome on its face, the reality is that Apple is still gaining in the smartphone market. Despite the lower shipment numbers, the company increased its smartphone market share during the first half of 2013. According to DigiTimes, much of this market capture is due to sales of older, less-expensive iPhone models.

This demonstrates exactly the market Apple is shooting for with its new budget-priced iPhone 5C. It also once again highlights predictions that mid- and low-priced smartphones will be the major growth segment for the industry in the coming years. This effect will be particularly visible in emerging markets, such as Brazil and China. DigiTimes Research has warned that Apple is losing market share in China to Samsung, LG, and Chinese smartphone manufacturers. That is a market Apple will have to reclaim to stay on top of the smartphone industry.

(via DigiTimes)