There are a number of different companies you should know about, and one of these is Apple. The company has produced some of the best technology ever to hit the market, and if you own a Mac or iPhone, you need to be aware of how they operate. You should also be aware of the AppleCare+ warranty program, and how you can avoid costly repairs if you ever need them.
Apple’s business model
Apple’s business model is one of the most successful in the world. It’s a unique combination of innovative technology, product/services combination and consumer-centric design. Although it’s a success, it’s not without its limitations.
The novelty of the business model may not be sufficient for a long-term competitive advantage. Rather, it’s the application of the business model to the competitive environment that is most likely to produce sustainable advantage.
Although the iPhone has made Apple a household name, the company’s growth has been slowing in recent years. This is mainly because of a host of competitors that have overtaken the iPhone maker in key markets. While Apple has a strong global footprint, its market share in emerging economies is relatively small.
In addition to the iPhone, Apple has introduced a wide range of services. These include a subscription model, which provides entertainment to consumers on top of a robust product base. And Apple’s newest invention, the Apple Watch, opens the door to a plethora of digital subscription models.
The company also uses its own retail stores and resellers to sell its products and services around the world. It uses this strategy to exert control over retailers and consumers.
As part of its multi-channel approach, the company integrates content, hardware and software to create an end-to-end supply chain. This strategy ties consumers to Apple devices, which in turn drives sales of profitable hardware.
Macintosh
Apple is a technology company that manufactures a variety of products. These include computer hardware, computer software, tablets, smartphones, and smart speakers. Many of its products are also used in the entertainment industry, including televisions, video game consoles, and audio equipment.
Apple began as a small company in 1976, but it quickly grew to become a worldwide leader. Its headquarters are in Cupertino, California. The company produces many different devices, including laptops, tablet computers, and wireless earphones.
Steve Jobs was the chief designer of the Macintosh computer. He designed the machine to target the educational market and knowledge workers. At the time, IBM was a leading personal computer manufacturer. However, IBM waited for the personal computer market to grow before it introduced its first PC.
In 1980, the company’s stock had a valuation of nearly $2 billion. This was higher than the valuation of Ford Motor Company, which went public the year before.
After its IPO, the company had over a thousand employees. It had sold over $100 million in stock in its first fiscal year.
In 1997, the company acquired Steve Jobs’ NeXT Software, Inc. Afterwards, Michael Markkula became a prominent member of the company’s board of directors.
Apple continued to produce new products. In 2007, the iPhone was released. Several other innovative products followed. iPod, a portable MP3 player, was another product.
The iMac was also a huge hit. The all-in-one computer introduced CD/DVD mastering software, video editing software, and digital media production software.
iPhone
Apple has come a long way from its heyday as a maker of Macintosh computers. Now, the company is in the business of building hardware and software for customers on all ends of the spectrum.
The iPhone is a mobile phone and a web browser all in one. It features a 3.5 inch touch screen display, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi “b” and “g” wireless networks, and a nifty tad of memory. For a start, the handset was available only on AT&T wireless service. As a result, it was not able to compete with the latest 3G wireless networks.
On a related note, the iPad has been a big hit for Apple. A few years after the iPhone’s debut, the company announced the iPad, a device that weighed in at 1.5 pounds and had a 9.7 inch diagonal display.
It also was a good move on Apple’s part to pair the iPhone with AirPods, a pair of wireless headphones. This combination has proved to be a hit with iPhone users. Using AirPods, one can listen to music, watch videos, and surf the Internet without any of the distractions associated with a laptop.
Not only did the company create a dazzling device, it also tapped into the mobile advertising sphere, a nifty monetization avenue that has become more prevalent over the past few years. By offering apps and services in its stores, Apple can maintain a high profitability.
Apple TV
Apple TV is a streaming media player from the company that brought you the iPod. This gadget streams movies and shows to your HDTV, and allows you to access other services such as Netflix and Hulu.
There are a few models to choose from. The third and fourth generation Apple TVs support 1080p video content, and the fourth supports 4K resolution. They also feature voice control capabilities. However, the first and second generation Apple TVs will only output 1080i.
Apple has licensed some popular television shows and films. It’s best to check with the company before you purchase. Some content is licensed in countries with limited availability. For example, the original seasons of Fraggle Rock are available to watch on the Apple TV, but it will cost you.
You can stream Apple TV through your wireless router, or through a hardwired Internet connection. In order to use the Apple TV app, you’ll need an Apple ID and an iTunes account.
Apple TV is available at several retail outlets, including Best Buy, Target, and Costco. Apple plans to expand the service’s availability.
The Apple TV app is designed to give users a comprehensive view of all the programs and channels on their television. That includes a large selection of movies, television shows, and music.
The Apple TV isn’t quite the Netflix or the Fire TV, but it’s a pretty good replacement. It also works well with the iOS platform, which is the primary means of downloading apps.
Apple Watch
Apple Watch is a wearable smartwatch, which is designed to connect to your iPhone via Wi-Fi. It can be used to read and send text messages, make phone calls, send email and track fitness.
There are three models available from Apple. These models run watchOS 9 software. The SE model includes an accelerometer for up to 32 g-forces and is compatible with blood oxygen monitoring. The watch is available in both a 40mm and a 44mm size.
The Series 3 has a dual-core processor. It’s also water-resistant. All the models come with a heart-rate sensor. They’re priced at $279 (PS269) for the 40mm and $309 (PS299) for the 44mm.
The Watch can detect rear and front impacts, as well as rollovers. Apple’s Intelligent Alert system can be activated when it’s unable to detect the impact, making it possible for you to call for help.
While the Series 7 is the most expensive Apple Watch, you can still find it at some retailers for less than $400. This makes it a good deal for those who want a new watch but don’t need to spend a lot of money.
Apple Watch SE is also available, and has the same dual-core processor and accelerometer. However, it comes with a built-in compass and international emergency calling. You can use the Watch’s ECG app to monitor your heartbeat and take electrocardiograms directly from your wrist.
AppleCare+
AppleCare+ is a great option for those who want a little extra coverage on their iPhone or Apple watch. It offers a lower cost way to take care of routine repairs. You can also get the added protection of an extended warranty.
This service is available for most Apple devices. You can even buy it for your iPad or iPod touch. The cost depends on the type of device and whether you opt for the annual or monthly plan.
If your device breaks, Apple will ship you a new one. This is a unique feature compared to extended warranties offered by competitors. They will also pay for shipping both ways.
The service also comes with technical support. You can ask questions online or by phone at 8 am to 11 pm EST. However, you are not required to use the service.
If you do want to make a claim, you’ll need to contact Apple’s customer service center. Apple will let you know if you qualify.
In the past, you had to buy AppleCare+ within a year of purchasing your Apple device. But now, you can get it up to 60 days after buying your device.
The benefits of AppleCare are numerous. It covers accidental damage, liquid damage, and hardware malfunctions. Plus, it provides you with three years of free telephone technical support.
For more information about what’s covered under AppleCare+, check out Apple’s website. There’s a page titled “Check Your Service and Support Coverage,” which will help you learn more.