In response to Nathan’s comment, I’d like to expand a little further. While I do agree with many of Nathan’s points, I believe that Apples key positioning is what is keeping it at the top of the ladder in its respective market but falling in comparison to its values.

With reference to the mobile phone market, whenever someone thinks about a stylish, touch screen product, they think Apple Iphone’s. Since its inception into the market as the first touch screen phone, Apple established its place at the top of the ladder. Despite its many initial problems, the masses loved it and wanted more. As time went on Android has started to creep up the ladder, surpassing the Iphone in many of her undervalued areas, the Iphone will forever be our first choice. From personal experience I have always loved my Samsung because of its reliability and the fact that it does break if I drop it from a few inches off the ground, but my friends always default to the newest Iphone.

Although the Iphone does have its perks, when it comes to value, Samsung is on top. Apple’s main concept is to keep the Iphone as simple as possible while remaining original. With its all white design being matched by Samsung’s all black design, Samsung has moved to the top of the list in customer satisfaction and reliability. Being able to last over two days, match the apps of Apple, take higher quality pictures and be more affordable is what has led Samsung to move forward in terms of values. That being said, Apple has spent a lot more money on its firm position in the market, hence Apples higher sales rates and revenues.

Although I will never be a fan of Apple, the Iphone as a flagship product will keep Samsung below in terms of position, ultimately leaving Apple with the burden of producing better, while Samsung has the burden of “catching up.”