The success of the iPod has redefined several markets, namely the MP3 player and digital content markets, as well as revitalised the Apple brand itself. This may in turn disrupt the computing and convergence landscape.

Apple's history shows a continuous leap in technological advancements and a new or upgraded offering on average every six months. Visiongain believes that the years 2006 and 2007 will see product offerings accelerate as Apple focuses on convergence technologies. One such product is the “iPhone”, an Apple-branded mobile handset. What is Apple’s strategy and HOW will it affect you? By purchasing this report, you will find out.

The iPod capitalised on the emerging digital content market that has proven elusive to other industries and iPod competitors. Apple shipped over 14 million iPods during the quarter, representing 207% year-on-year growth, and visiongain estimates total shipments of over 40 million iPods. Thanks to close synergies and integration with the iPod, over one billion tracks have been downloaded from the iTunes Music Store.

As convergence enters full swing, media companies, wireless carriers, vendors and others are searching for ways to reach new consumers and generate extra revenues – mobile phones and iPod devices support video and music download capabilities, and content owners are providing exclusive music and TV for both device platforms.

Apple acknowledges the threat mobile handsets pose to portable MP3 players in the long term. As such, it has begun to make a mobile play – initially, via the Motorola partnership. However, we argue that Apple could embrace mobile more fully and pose a greater threat to the cellphone industry itself – as an MVNO challenging carriers and a cellphone brand challenging handset makers. Find out what options are available to Apple and how your organisation can be involved.

Among others, this 80+-page report analyses:

Apple’s core products and services
The company’s strengths and weaknesses
The opportunities that exist for its entry into wireless
The impact of such a move on Apple and the cellular/wireless industry
Questions answered in this report include:

How does Apple manufacture, distribute and market its products and services?
How do these products and services interact or overlap with the cellular industry?
What is the Apple’s strategic vision and future product roadmap?
As a digital content retailer, Apple is leading the market - can it transfer this success and its brand across to wireless? What strengths would Apple be able to leverage with potential entry?
What opportunities and threats would Apple’s entry into mobile create?
What impact would this have on both Apple and the industry?
How would becoming an MVNO change Apple’s business model?
What impact will French legislation have on Apple and DRM in general?
Why you should buy this report:

Mobile operators – Find out how to maximise the value of hosting an Apple-branded MVNO on your network. Also discover what kind of competition Apple would offer were it to become an MVNO.
Handset vendors – Assess Apple’s iPod strategy and the likely impact of that the iPhone device would have on your business. Find out what specifications Apple would demand from a mobile phone.
Content providers & media companies – Learn what opportunities exist in partnering with Apple. Gain insight into Apple’s general strategy and how it compares to yours

Apple in Wireless: Strategic options in a converged marketplace