As we inch closer to Apple’s expected announcement, it seems like everyone is scrambling to make their last minute predictions. What will theiPhone 5look like? Is Apple really going to release a lower end model of its popular smartphone?
While most folks seem convinced that we’ll seetwonew versionsof the iPhone this Fall, there are some skeptics. How can Apple offer a low-cost version of its exclusive handset? Wouldn’t it have to sacrifice quality? Not necessarily…
All of the information we’ve heard so far suggests that Apple is planning onre-releasing the iPhone 4this year. And although the device is expected to be priced much less than its predecessor, it sounds like it will be a better handset.
But how could this be? How could Appleadd a dual core processorto a phone that’s currently selling for $199 (on contract), and then reduce the price? You don’t have to look much further than the iPad for that answer.
When Apple announced the original iPad, people were ready to pay $1,000 for it. In fact, they were shocked when Steve Jobs unveiled its starting price of $499. Then, in 2011, Apple made the tablet thinner and faster, andcontinuedto offer it for less than $500.
Apple can do this because of its major supply chain presence.No other company has Apple’s cash flow. And no other device-maker orders components like it Apple. But most importantly,no one else has Tim Cook.
Before he was appointed CEO, Tim Cook was the best COO (Chief Operating Officer) in the business. He negotiated supplier deals, and made sure devices got where they needed to be, all while keeping costs down and not sacrificing quality.
The competition is still scratching its heads trying to figure out how Apple has managed to produce its iPad at such a low cost. Tablet-makers are struggling tomakea 10″ tablet under $500, let alone sell one.
I’m guessing we’ll soon see Apple’s ability tomanipulate supply costsspill over into its handsets. Can you imagine a low-cost iPhone 4 with an A5 processor and 5mp camera? It would be a category killer. Andthat’sthe Tim Cook effect.
