iPhone's Core Competency Potential: Threat for Android and BlackBerry
The trends in cellular devices are changing from that of the typical calling device to a smart phone. A smart phone is one that runs complete operating system software (similar to PC), having the features like email, internet, VGA connectors etc and a platform for application developers. So the recent discussions are as to who will take the lead among Symbian, BlackBerry, Android, Microsoft and iPhone. Presently iPhone has the lead due to the reason that it retains the most developers, which is generally believed to be the criteria and reason to succeed. Although iPhone looks dominant but still some people believe that ultimately Android will make its distinct place. However, some perceive that the holders of greatest market shares are the potential leaders. For instance, RIM enjoys a distinguished position in North American market. Consequently, the developers would prefer collaborating with such ventures.
What do commercial developers actually look for when they prefer a platform?
They look for:-
- The large-scale production benefits i.e. low cost to produce a product for a specific market.
- A well-designed procedure and channel to approach the markets.
- Masses that can be efficiently dealt as defined markets.
The steps, which Microsoft Windows took to capture the market for PC, were the closely aligned to those, mentioned above. Microsoft adopted the policy of mass marketing with an efficient supply chain. The proper distribution channels complemented the technology of Microsoft by providing a quick and cost effective track to reach the final consumer with the best product.
SDK (software development kit) is a middle ware that allows developers to create applications and software for specific platforms; it is a cheap way of supplying software even by third parties directly to consumers without violating laws and rights. SDKs are on forefront these days especially through iPhone. iPhone has taken up this intelligent strategy unlike many others in the market. Formerly carriers were a median, which got costly due to increase in demand and competition by different platforms.
How are different key Brands like BlackBerry, Android and iPhone differentiated in the present market?
BlackBerry
- BlackBerry dominates the industry especially that of business circles with more than 30 million devices being used worldwide.
- Although BlackBerry has a good distribution strategy and access to masses but still they have room for improvement. BlackBerry Application world is a nice attempt but Carrier store can make it better and apart from that directly approaching customers, like Dell do, must also be considered. The thing mostly disliked by customers is when they have to search for applications, they would obviously want everything available at one location from where they can simply chose and use.
- There has been a substantial increase in the cost to develop market for BlackBerry due to different operating systems even in the same model number. It is normally seen that the operating system in blackberry for AT&T, Rogers or orange are different for all.
Android
- Android though being a new entry in the market still managed to attract about million users.
- Similar to BlackBerry Android also face the dissatisfaction of customers regarding the availability of applications easily.
- Software developers face difficulties because a personalized device can be ordered, and to deal with distinct devices gets difficult.
iPhone
- According to a research in 2009, iPhone retains customers three times as of Android.
- iPhone correctly identified the need of people by providing a single data base for all the applications available, by company or third parties, which results in the ease of users. Developers can have their applications recognized at respective Apple stores.
- Cost effectively and efficiently customers can easily upgrade to any new versions available. Customers know the way and place to get what they want.
- Current war on smart phones will continue, as they will keep coming up with something new to offer.
Yes, Usage of iPhone is increasing day by day and it’s a big threat for android and blackberry. iPhone design and look is the main reason of choosing iPhone.
Well, I utterly go with the rapid success of iPhone….although the business phones like blackberry are gaining repute among the business class nonetheless iPhone holds the stage.
Yup, iPhone is a class in itself having all one wants. No doubt it is a threat for blackberry and Android. I see a big future for this technological enhanced phone.
iPhone is really a threat for Android and Blackberry. It is a big innovation of science. I like it.
I’ve been using iPhone since long and consider it the best technology. It can really defeat Android and Blackberry.