Why do people still love the iPhone? Apple is one of the greatest innovators right now with a loyal following.
Just one year later after the launch of the generation One iPhone, Apple offers the 3G iPhone, which you would think would enrage early adopters for getting the short shrift because they paid to see the earliest model for a higher price than on the new 3G.
Still, people flock to Apple stores, bringing in the original early adopters who purchased First Generation iPhones last year and a second wave of customers that chose to “wait and see.” Even after a year later, the scene at Apple stores upon product launch date on July 11, the lines outside of Apple Stores is much reminiscent of anticipated movie screenings, such as Independence Day ten years ago).
How does Apple do it? Some argue that Apple’s branding is one of the best in the world, as referenced from a 2002 Wired article. Others say it is the sleek design, which is a clear differentiator from most clunky mobile and home computing products that won’t be named because you know who they are.
Both of these are true, but most tend to think of Apple’s approach as entirely a brand strategy, or absolutely an industrial design approach, but people forget that strategy is complex and by no means one-dimensional.
Apple is also the rule breaker that pays no attention to common conventions, adds new value to existing markets, and opens up new channels for other markets that would not otherwise have existed. Apple is not content with being the first mover, as there will be imitators that will follow.
They have done well in three markets: Entertainment (iPod), Productivity(iPhone) and Desktop Computing and it seems to me that by identifying the weaknesses of their competitors, they have turned the entire consumer gadgets industry on its head.
Now that’s something for entrepreneurs to scratch their heads about. If you have a product that works, you have a current success. But that doesn’t mean your product will rise above the noise, will be remembered and most of loved–an important trait for a brand if you are to forgiven later on for product fiascos.
How would you do it? Let’s take a banal product like a computer mouse. How would you turn something like that into a revolution?
Now, I’ll turn the question over to forum, because it’s certainly a complex topic that requires some discussion.
I absolutely love Apple products, though I do not have an iPhone, I have used Macs exclusively in my home and at work for about 7 years. I have had about 7 rendition of the iPod in my home and we still have our original 1st gen iPod, which still works! Not only has Apple masterminded creating cool products but they have also got the marketing game down too!