Let’s start this post off by addressing some of last week’s big news: the iPad 2.
Since I am not an iPad owner, or a potential iPad owner, this news affected me minimally. The only repercussion was that my Twitter feed was overflowing with Apple fanatics and tech geeks raving about the iPad. Out of curiosity, I started researching about the new features on the upcoming device. Then something hit me. And what struck me so violently and suddenly was the marketing strategy of Apple.
Before I begin my rant, I need to make a disclaimer. I am a PC owner. The only Apple products I own are an iPod classic that I’ve had for about two years, and all the miscellaneous accessories I’ve purchased for it. Given that I am indeed a PC user, I’ve spent plenty of hours of my life complaining about Macs without any real reason. Don’t get me wrong–they definitely have their perks, as I’ve finally experienced first-hand, and PCs aren’t perfect either. My time in college has surely expanded my technological horizons. So here goes…
As I continued to look further into the exciting, new features of the iPad 2, I became annoyed. None of the changes were fresh, groundbreaking ideas. Instead, I noticed that they were things Apple should have included in the original iPad. I would cut them some slack since the tablet is a pretty new piece of tech, except that this is what Apple does. They release a product and market it in a way to make consumers feel on top of the world if they purchase it. And let’s be honest–who didn’t feel cool when they picked up an iPhone when it was first was released? But the problem is that their devices are creating lacking some basic features that any Joe Schmoe would think to include. Let me repeat this: They design their products with flaws.
You can argue that any sensible company, whether they make vacuum cleaners or cars, purposely will not build a product designed to last. It’s a way of raking in revenue. If everyone made indestructible vacuum cleaners, cellphones and cars, companies would eventually run out of ways to make money. So maybe the problem isn’t Apple. Maybe the problem is the mindless drones that will purchase anything that has a little apple engraved into it.
Apple has done a magnificent job developing consumer loyalty. From their sleek, innovative products to their simple yet effective advertising, you have to give them credit for what they do.
15 million people who bought the original iPad less than a year ago are undoubtedly clenching their jaws and grinding their teeth together in anger. My iPad is old and useless now. Fooled by the Apple marketing strategies yet again! Apple has a magnificent way of making your less-than-a-year-old device feel suddenly obsolete by releasing an improved version of it. When you hear about that brand new iPad, there is a good chance you will seriously consider dishing out another $700 to get a product only remotely better than the one you’re currently holding in your hands. Frustrating, isn’t it?
Apple is trying to monopolize the tech industry and frankly, they’re doing a damn good job. Android, it’s time to step up your game. Show Steve Jobs what you’re made of.
RELATED: The Oatmeal explores the frustration of owning an Apple product.
Nicole Scilingo 