Apple's WWDC - 2012

[KingIsaacLinksr]

Ok, so for Tim, X and everyone else who consistently complains about the "Apple business model", here's a fool proof solution for you: DON'T BUY APPLE. So simple even a child could figure it out.

I have the same complaint about other business models too. As far as smartphones go...its pretty much a necessary evil. Nothing I can do about it unless I go cheap-phone.

King

[QuadShot]

Tim, when it comes to tech there is no such thing as necessary. We don't NEED tech, especially smart phones. So, yeah, there is plenty those who don't like the "business models" can do...don't buy. Period. Borrowing and paraphrasing from Kenny "don't be a hater"...:)

[KingIsaacLinksr]

Tim, when it comes to tech there is no such thing as necessary. We don't NEED tech, especially smart phones. So, yeah, there is plenty those who don't like the "business models" can do...don't buy. Period. Borrowing and paraphrasing from Kenny "don't be a hater"...:)

I wasn't hating on Apple so....I'm good there.

True point on the necessity, I do need a phone though, but obviously not one that's a smart version heh.

King

[Dangelus]

My philosophy is "stick with what you got if it works".

A lot of Apple consumers have a great deal of disposal income and are keen to have the latest kit. I don't have either ;)

I'm happy with the devices I have and I understand Apple is running a business and of course they are going to add new features to newer devices as an incentive to upgrade.

[X]

Ok, so for Tim, X and everyone else who consistently complains about the "Apple business model", here's a fool proof solution for you: DON'T BUY APPLE. So simple even a child could figure it out.

Yeah, you're right and I don't buy Apple products. That being said, I feel that my opinion of the business model is still a valid one. I learned a long time ago to "vote with my wallet", but that same child that can figure that out is also the same child that is entitled to their opinion on things.

[Dangelus]

Ok, so for Tim, X and everyone else who consistently complains about the "Apple business model", here's a fool proof solution for you: DON'T BUY APPLE. So simple even a child could figure it out.

Yeah, you're right and I don't buy Apple products. That being said, I feel that my opinion of the business model is still a valid one. I learned a long time ago to "vote with my wallet", but that same child that can figure that out is also the same child that is entitled to their opinion on things.

Very polite retort there X.

Are we really going into this territory again on the forums? Really?

A bunch of technology enthusiasts, many of whom buy Apple products can't talk about, speculate and criticise Apple's business and upgrade strategy?

[QuadShot]

Funny thing about this, and it's not just here, but pretty much everywhere, especially on Social Media: as long as your opinion or comment goes with the flow of everyone's opinion, that's ok. However, the MOMENT someone says anything to defend a company, like Apple, the flames start. All of a sudden "are we really going into this territory again..." Dan, I'm not saying that people can't criticise Apple. What I am saying is remember that SAME mentality when others start bashing what YOU like. Like movies, or television series. Because I'll tell you, once someone starts criticizing a movie or TV show that's popular with most here, out come the "ok we get it, you're a hater, now stop crapping on this" comments. BLAH!

[billybob476]

I guess the challenge is discussing things that you are passionate about (either in your support or dislike) while maintaining some objectivity. Apple management aren't evil, nor is the management of any other large company. They make technology that many people love, those products are priced at what the market will bear. If they start making too many unpopular decisions or the quality of their devices or the quality of their experience goes down, they will become unsuccessful. It may not happen overnight, brand loyalty will do that, but eventually consumers would vote with their money.

[QuadShot]

Joe, I agree with you. In fact, I HATE Microsoft. I have a TON of reasons for hating that company and for thinking, no, KNOWING they're worse than Apple. Oh, everyone says they're better because they're "OPEN" but crap on that. They SUCK. But you know what? I don't go on and on and on and on about that fact. Others LOVE attacking Apple, and that's their right, but then when I attempt to defend them, BOOM. And you better believe that if I were to attack Microsoft, I guarantee I'd get flamed en masse. Like I said, I LOVE this community. But I really have no love for the fact that it's morphing into a "your opinion means something as long as it gels with the rest of us" mentality, and I don't think that's a conscience morphing either. But honestly it does seem that whenever some of us either say something negative about a popular subject, or defend what appears to be an unpopular subject, the gloves come off. That's why I said that it's simple, if you don't like Apple don't buy it. But crap man, don't go on and on and on about how evil they are.

[Jobydrone]

I wouldn't say the site is morphing into anything negative at all.  In fact, not pointing any fingers, but I've noticed it's always the same four or five people arguing back and forth about these topics.  I've never felt freer to express my opinion anywhere on the web or in fact anywhere in the world than here on this site, and that's coming from someone that has had his opinion on a couple controversial topics bashed mightily.  I would never suggest that your feelings about this are wrong or invalid, Al, just saying it hasn't been my experience or observation.

[Rico]

I'll try to keep this short.  The probably best way to discuss things like this is to try and not make it personal.  Everyone has their personal likes and dislikes.  My biggest issue at times is when someone says something about any subject without any real knowledge of it.  Everyone should feel they can express their "informed opinion" here.  And if you ever feel you are being dog piled on for your views, please let me know or one of the mods know about it.

[QuadShot]

Aw shut up...I LOVE YOU ALL!!!!!!! :)

[X]

Funny thing about this, and it's not just here, but pretty much everywhere, especially on Social Media: as long as your opinion or comment goes with the flow of everyone's opinion, that's ok. However, the MOMENT someone says anything to defend a company, like Apple, the flames start. All of a sudden "are we really going into this territory again..." Dan, I'm not saying that people can't criticise Apple. What I am saying is remember that SAME mentality when others start bashing what YOU like. Like movies, or television series. Because I'll tell you, once someone starts criticizing a movie or TV show that's popular with most here, out come the "ok we get it, you're a hater, now stop crapping on this" comments. BLAH!

Just for the record, I enjoy passionate discussion and I'm not one to think that you have to like every aspect of something to be considered a fan, nor am I the type of person that gets offended by the opinions of another. I like seeing different perspectives on something and I don't take it personally. Hell, I don't care what you hate or love on a personally level because it doesn't affect me on a personal level.

I'm a great fan of debate and verbal sparing. I'm also the first one to point out that my opinion is just that, my opinion. Not everyone will agree with and like it, but I am willing to read counter points about it. Sure, there are a lot of fans of the Apple experience, but as far as business models go, the PCs are still grinding them in the dust. The Apple experience is still a minority experience and that leaves plenty of room for discussion on that.

Quad, I do agree with you that there can be some venom spewed from people in regards to certain topics, but I humbly counter that there is a very vocal community of Apple fans that are akin to rabid sharks on the internet. Rather than discuss the topics, technology, and experience, they see any disagreement with the Cult of Jobs as a personal attack on their every souls then proceed to attack the offending opinions.

I think that for a small minority of the world, the Apple model works, but for the vast majority of the world, there has to be reasons why Apple isn't even close to second place.

I mean, how long has the Apple OS been out and how long have they been at less than 10%? Then on the other hand, they are the dominating force in the tablet market, but it took less than 12 months for android to get of 20% of the tablet business.

Rough estimates say that apple has almost tripled their presence in the pc world, but to be at only 10% after how many years? Then to loose over 20% of the market you started just a year speaks volumes to why I think the Apple experience has some issues. I'm not bashing apple to be one of the cool kids, I just don't buy into the apple hype machine.

- Sold millions of iPAD. Check.
- Lost 20% of the niche market you created. Not so good.
- Used good will of iOS to drive sales into the OS X. Almost hitting 10% of the market. Good growth.
- Been in the market since the start of the market and can't break double digits consistently.

In the end, Apple's sales volume helps to dictate their business direction in my opinion and by releasing their products in cycles they can get their fan base to double dip and increase their sales, but it's not generating a ton of active growth. Many of the same people are buying several version of the same products.

Sure that by itself is enough to keep Apple in business, but they are never going to beat the vast majority of the world that still require function over form and that their hard earned money get the most they can for the amount that they are spending.

[Bryancd]

You all can bite me, Apple rules!!! :)

[Jobydrone]

  And if you ever feel you are being dog piled on for your views, please let me know or one of the mods know about it.

This part seems kind of ominous with your new avatar Rico ;)