Sour Apples

I've been down on Apple lately. Really hard on on them. But I have my reasons, which I'll get into in a moment. First, I bought into Apple, not only their products, but their stock. Several years ago I saw the original iPod. Now reminiscent of the 8track tape, big, clunky, very limited capabilities. But at the time, it was hip, cool, and useful. Having my entire music collection readily available and neatly categorized was a nice thing. Portability and being able to plug it into either a computer or a home stereo or P.A. system was great for me. Then the store, able to buy songs individually or albums and decent prices. Then Apple came out with the iPhone. I bought into the hype. Phone, useful apps, music, internet all in one handy package. But something was missing. And this is where I started having my doubts about the Apple philosophy and the company in general.
Starting with the iPhone, Apple gave an exclusive to AT&T for carrier services. Seemed innocent enough until the first issue arose, AT&T would not allow MMS messaging (photos in text messages) for iPhone users for fear it would overload their network. Even with the iPhone having a camera for seemingly just this purpose, it would take two years and the introduction of the 3G series of iPhones before MMS would be allowed. Then on Apple's part, the internet lacks the ability to allow websites that are driven by Adobe flash software to be displayed. Even though we were promised the "full internet," we never got it. Turns out Apple doesn't want to work with Adobe, instead favoring a new type of software that it can sell to web designers and try to profit from.
Issues continued with the 3G series of phones with Apple still insisting that AT&T be the exclusive carrier provider. Most notably was the lack of tethering, the ability to use the iPhone as a modem. Although Apple built this feature into the phone AT&T would not allow it to be used this way for fear of overloading their fragile network.
The newest iPhone is having enough technical issues that class action lawsuits are already being filed. Apparently having a phone that can't make calls due to its antenna design is a major problem to most consumers. Also there are issues with the yellowing of the screen and it's quite fragile, with the front and rear being made of glass.
With the iPad, there were many features lacking on it's first gen run. Lack of a video camera, first models could only connect via wi-fi, no ports for any peripherals- such as a printer, still no flash software. Seems Apple likes to dole out these features like Scrooge paying Bob Cratchet, just enough to keep the public coming back. Then it can release a new version and make more money. Seems like a good business idea, just enough to barley satisfy each time.
And don't get me started on the whole battery thing. None of the "i" series of products have a user accessible battery. Frustrating when you're not anywhere recharging is possible.
Moving away from my issues with the hardware, next on the list is the Apple philosophy. At least how I see it now. Apple is very closed when it comes to their platforms. Music on bought at their online store won't work with non-Apple devices. (Although, I'm sure there is some third party software that will convert it) Apple wants to be in control of it all. My problem with this is that in technology proprietary ploys, such as this, stifle innovation. Apple does allow 3rd party developers to create apps for its products. But then keeps 30% of all revenue from the sale of those apps sold in its store. And that's a lot of money for Steve Jobs. Seriously how much do those blue jeans and black turtle necks cost?



Remember this video? Well since 1984 I feel Apple has done a 180 turn, and that face on the screen could now easily be Steve Jobs telling us what we want, what we need.
I have real problems with all aspects of Apple. It's iTunes store is akin to wal-mart putting mom and pops out of business. Independent music stores are almost non-existent now.
Finally, the investor side. This week Apple announced it sold 1.7 million iPhone 4 units as of Saturday June 26th. Apple stock fell through the week, even after the announcement. Now in an effort to garner new sales, and suck in more of the public a deal with Verizon is being reported, and sales of iPhones will begin in Q1 of 2011. Even with Deutsche Bank putting a buy rating on Apple, projecting a $375 per share price point, and Jim Crammer, of CNBC's "Mad Money," banging the drum for Apple, I feel Apple has peaked in price and will struggle to ever see $280.00. I say sell Apple and move your money to another company.