I agree completely. Until just recently Apple has had no need to offer a smaller version of the Ipad. When consumers are buying up the Ipad and Ipad 2 at hefty price points, they had no need to go after the cheaper market. This does seem like the optimal time for Apple to introduce a smaller version and try to gain some market share.
Bolaji, Apple recently lost its patent war with a Chinese company. This mad shed almost all Apple Ipads from their shelf and there is no business for IPad in China. In that scenario, would you mean that Apple comes up with something new for Ipad or they will continue with their effort for low cost versions?
Another great topic and post, Barb. Just an opinion of course, but I'm going to venture the same guess I did the first time Apple leaked plans for a smaller-screened device. I think they are wanting to capture more female marketshare. The beauty of a Kindle Fire and some other Android devices is simple from this respect...they fit in a purse. I have literally been party to several conversations where this was a major factor in the buying decision. I also think that, outside a certain tech-skilled set of women, this is an area Apple has failed to dominate.
The more I think about it, the more I agree that providing consumers with a choice is the right move. I may spend money on scaled down iPad if the price is right. I did hear something that threw me, though: the iPad 3, whether it is 7 inches or 10 inches, will run on 4G. Doesn't that ratchet the price back up?
Apple's strategy has always been to enter the market with a high-end product and squeeze as much profit from that as possible. Then, later, it introduces the slightly cheaper version to gain access to a wider customer base. That's what the company has to do with its tablet PCs.
I think that is a good a good idea, if Apple makes different screen sizes for their Ipads. This would allow users to make choice. well based on their pockets and nature of use.
New size ipad will definitely increase the apple market share, and if apple could find a cheaper option with AUO it will be more beneficial to customors. Why I care if it is 7" when I can use the Apple device.
Barbara, you are right. The I Pad's tablet market share is now sparing with competitors like Samsung and Amazon because of size concern. Apple had only 9.7"' screen size and I feels that it's a drawback in size. They have to offer it in different size like 7/9'' at different price point. But performance and power wise Apple is much superior to its competitors.
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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