I think patents definitely have the advantage that they protect protect companies from imitation and encourage innovation and new development.
@TaimoorZ, in the same way patents also discourages other companies from using the technology and thus encouraging monopoly. I think we should reduce the patent term so that we can balance between innovation and IP protection.
I also believe these companies that are trying to inch into Apple's market share are also aided by the slow ecomony that is humbling consumers to accept cheaper products that they would not normally have given a choice.
@Daisy, Although I agree with your point that "slow economy is aiding companies that are trying to compete with Apple".I would say recession has thought people to spend wisely and it really make sense to buy 200$ tablet rather than invest 500$+ on iPAD. I think Apple should reduce its products prices to stay in the competition.
There's a difference between defending your IP and using a patent as an offensive strike at your competition. It's too bad that patents have moved so far away from their original intent.
@ Bolaji, I also believe these companies that are trying to inch into Apple's market share are also aided by the slow ecomony that is humbling consumers to accept cheaper products that they would not normally have given a choice. Affordability is therefore driving the consumers more that the reliability Apple and other big corporations are known for.
I agree with you, one would almost be sorry for apple sseing all these other companies trying to corner Apple's market but from a consumer's point of view it might be a good thing getting quality for cheaper prices.
Apple's woe brings to mind the saying that you cannot patent an idea only its execution and a single idea can be executed in many ways....
I was keeping an eye on major titles from newspapers and today, once again, strongest focus is on financial crisis and how EU could make steps forward for winning this battle (crisis in economy) in which the enemy is still not clear. I am wondering what could be real interest of people in a topic so important as patent war, considering that they are trying to cut any costs in their personal life and while tech devices are needed, alternatives players from Far East are promoting in EU products very cheap and absolutely in line with current spending standard.
I was in a Best Buy store over the weekend and the range of products available was amazing, most of which compete against Apple devices. I was frightened for Apple. The company is being sandwiched by a bunch of companies angling for its market share and I believe they are slowly winning over consumers.
@Kunmi, you're correct in saying that patent terms should not be seen to halt innovations. I think the purpose is to protect the interest of the innovator. As we all know, the patent law as it stands is cumbersome and subject to various legal interpretations. This is why I think urgent clarifications of the law is required. Hopefully EU might just be able to provide this.
@Wale, You're right. However, Apple and Samsung failed in that area. They have opted for a court battle. I just hope EU might be able to clarify the patent law
EBN Dialogue enables and encourages you to participate in live chats with notable leaders and luminaries. Not only editors and journalists, but the entire EBN community is able to comment and ask questions. Listed below are upcoming and archived chats.
Archived Dialogues
Thailand Stages a Comeback Join EBN contributor Jennifer Baljko on Thursday August 23, 2012, at 11:00 a.m. EST for a live chat on how electronic manufacturers in Thailand have shored up their supply chain to reduce the impact of future natural disasters.
Euro-Crisis: What It Means for High-Tech Firms Join EBN Editor in Chief Bolaji Ojo and Contributing Editor Jennifer Baljko on Thursday, July 12, at 10:00 a.m. EDT for a Live Chat on high-tech and Europe's economic difficulties.
Microsoft Surface: Potential Winners & Losers What are the implications for the electronics industry supply chain of Microsoft Corp.'s decision to launch its own tablet PC? Join industry veteran and EE Times' systems and OEM expert Rick Merritt on Tuesday, July 3, at 12:00 pm EDT for a Live Chat on this subject.
Join EBN contributor Jennifer Baljko on Thursday August 23, 2012, at 11:00 a.m. EST for a live chat on how electronic manufacturers in Thailand have shored up their supply chain to reduce the impact of future natural disasters.
Peter Drucker famously said "Trying to predict the future is like trying to drive down a country road at night with no lights while looking out the back window." Yet in the razor's-edge world of electronics—with a lean supply chain and just-in-time demands—the need to know the future is vital.
You've heard the saying "the No. 1 supply chain risk is your people." That hasn't always been the case. But today's complex global supply chain requires a new type of multitalented employee. It's one who understands, finance, marketing, economics, is savvy with technology, graceful with relationships and can think analytically.
Where are these people? Are universities properly preparing the next generation supply chain professionals? How do train your existing workforce for these new, demanding positions?
Brian Fuller, editor-in-chief of EBN, will lead a 60-minute Avnet Velocity panel discussion that will ask and answer these and other questions swirling around today's supply-chain talent challenges.
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