If I mention products such as iPhone, iPad or iMac one word comes to mind – Apple.
The multibillion dollar company that was founded in 1976 has changed the face of personal technology around the world.
Its innovative designs and software has made the Apple brand not only a major player in the evolution of computer technology, but a trendsetter among tech fans young and old.
As the main competitor to Microsoft, Apple made a play at selling personal computers. Not only this, it made sure that its product had appeal to all people, not just technology-savvy individuals.
The iMac was launched in May 1998 in a range of bright colours. Need I say more? This instantly took the shine off Microsoft. Who wants a dull white computer when you can get one in green, blue or even pink. Other than colour the 1998 iMac introduced a number of changes including USB ports as standard in all their computers.
Apple completely transformed the Music industry with the introduction of iTunes and the iPod in 2001. iTunes allowed people to download songs straight onto their iPod. The original had a 5GB hard drive which ex CEO Steve Jobs claimed “would allow you to put 1000 songs in your pocket.” The iTunes store was introduced in 2003 and later allowed for various video and full-film downloads.
As well as this, the iPod design had never been seen before. Intrigue and originality led to the iPod being the most successful portable digital music player to date.
This was soon followed by the iPhone launched in 2007 and most recently the iPad in 2010.
However with success comes harsh criticism and Apple is no exception.
In recent news, Apple has been under harsh criticism after Chinese environmentalists accused their Chinese suppliers of leaking toxic metal waste from the production of iPhones and iPads.
In response to these claims an Apple spokesperson assured that they had been monitoring factories in their supply chain with regular audits. He said: “We require that our supplier provides safe working conditions, treat workers with dignity and respect, and use environmentally responsible manufacturing processes wherever Apple products are made.”
In addition complaints have been made in the past concerning the regular upgrade of their products. Apple iPhone users claim to find it difficult to keep track of the newest product as they tend to change annually. This problem is currently being felt with the iPad as well.
It is fair to say that it is a difficult task to keep every person happy, however Apple continues to lead the way in PC innovation. The difference between Apple and its rivals is the simple fact that they know how to pull people in. Its unique ability to cater to everyone and keep even the technology-illiterate hooked is what separates them from the rest.