After-Market Accessories Industry Responds to Product Diversity

Case manufacturers, screen protector suppliers, and accessory makers face both challenges and opportunities from the expanded iPhone lineup. Each model requires dedicated product development while the total addressable market expands significantly.
The foldable device presents particular challenges for accessory design, as cases must protect the device while allowing smooth opening and closing. Screen protectors for flexible displays require specialized materials and application techniques entirely different from traditional glass protectors.
Profitable accessory production depends on accurate sales volume forecasting for each model. Manufacturers must decide which models justify full accessory line development versus minimal coverage, balancing investment risk against market opportunity.
Standardization initiatives like USB-C charging simplify some aspects of accessory compatibility while other elements like precise device dimensions and camera placement require model-specific design for proper fit and function.
Premium accessories targeting Pro and foldable users can command higher prices reflecting those devices’ positioning, while budget accessories for the “e” model need aggressive cost management to align with that device’s value positioning.