iPhones are no longer the first choice for global consumers, said an article published on Guangzhou Daily on Oct. 11.

Apple’s new model iPhone 8 was officially released on Sept. 22. However, at least seven handsets with swollen batteries have been reported so far. Apple has confirmed that it is currently investigating the cases.

Apple encountered its most muted reaction ever from customers on the release day of the iPhone 8. Many Apple Stores in China experienced unprecedented poor performance rather than lines of people winding down the streets.

In addition, the price of the new model has fallen by 400 to 500 RMB on some Chinese e-commerce platforms and in Shenzhen smartphone markets.

Some have attributed the Waterloo to Apple’s lack of innovation, saying the company is following the same disastrous path of the former communication giant Nokia.

Insiders say that iPhones are no longer the first choice of smartphone users, and emerging Chinese cell phones are attracting attention.