Forbes’ article on the most valuable brands discusses the importance of a strong brand name for a company. The brand name is the company’s chance at creating a lasting first impression on the consumer; it is therefore the most valuable asset because it directly influences the buyer. A strong brand value creates increasing returns to a company by allowing it to charge a premium price or increasing its market share.

Photo Source: As found November 5th, 2014

Forbes ranked Apple as number one and Microsoft as number two for the World’s Most Valuable Brands of 2014. It is interesting when you compare new technologies emerging from companies competing with Apple to actual Apple products. Competing companies are developing just as quickly, creating products that are just as, if not more, efficient, modern and user friendly as Apple products, and yet these companies struggle to receive the same recognition and the same market share. The power of Apple is so strong in the consumers mind that it is the subject of comparison; this is how you know it is a strong brand. People will pay a higher price for an Apple product than for an cheaper yet equally valuable product over at Microsoft.  I will admit, I am one of those consumers brainwashed by Apple. Now that I have Apple products, I can never see myself switching. When thinking of purchasing a new cell phone, a new music player or laptop, I think of Apple and what the company’s newest model this year is. To switch from Apple to Microsoft would result in consistent comparisons and constant disappointment, quite possibly only because it does not have that sleek Apple symbol.

Photo Source: Published on November 16th, 2011

I do not believe Microsoft will ever surpass Apple in brand value. Apple subconsciously dominates the consumers mind and this influence is hard to overcome once present.