Steve Jobs And The Era Of Innovation

When Steve Jobs (RIP) was fired from Apple, he started a company called NEXT and it’s the technology developed at NEXT that later formed the renaissance at Apple when Steve was re hired. Under this renaissance, Apple murdered Sony’s Walkman with the iPod in 2001 and later obliterated Blackberry with the release of the iPhone in 2007. Apple went ahead to reinvent tablets with its legendary iPad which was first released in 2010 while its Notebooks and Desktops were and are arguably still the best in the market right from design to performance. During this period, Apple was the trend and pacesetter with software and hardware way ahead of it’s time while others followed. Apple was always 5 steps ahead of its competition on any front they decided to pursue.

However, things weren’t going to stay this way for long. After Steve Jobs died and Tim Cook took over, its been quite a difficult time at the fruit company.

Can Tim Cook The Job Steve’s Way?

That’s a question many people are answering negatively right now and I empathize with Tim Cook. Tim can never be and should not be Steve Jobs and yet everybody is expecting him to be Jobs. They judge all his decisions based on “WHAT STEVE JOBS WOULD HAVE DONE” . Tim Cook has however, managed to keep Apple in the top 10 global most profitable companies posting profits and not losses and I think its time to cut Tim some slack and let him Cook his own way other than Jobs’s way.

It’s however clear that Apple is struggling to keep up with the market as they have been playing catch up in the market and innovation arena lately. Using the 4P’s of marketing commonly referred to as the “ Marketing Mix ”, I show you how market dynamics are affecting Apple’s game as we figure out the question “Has Apple Lost its Cool”?

1. Price: Leadership Vs. Mass Adoption

Apple products are pricey in comparison to the alternatives like Samsung, HTC, LG, Sony and Huawei among others that can do what an iPhone does. The average price of an iPhone is about $700 unlocked or without a contract. A Macbook starts at $1000 and an iPod starts at $49 and goes upto $229 while the iPad mini goes for $329 and the iPad goes for $499 yet many people still buy Apple products and as a result Apple makes money through massive sales.

Its however unlikely that these massive sales are leading to mass adoption or huge profits like they used to. Compared to Samsung that makes a flagship phone and releases 3 versions of the same to fit different price segments and markets, Apple may have to pick a leaf which it seems to have already done in the iPhone 5c.

Apple’s pricing and distribution strategy clearly shows that they aren’t making devices for everyone but are making superior devices for the upper middle class. They are targeting those who want “To be and think different” . Research has also revealed that there are fewer people buying the iPhone and many more returning their old phones for a newer models which means there are lesser new or first time customers and Apple may just be playing with existing customers. So even though iPhones may not be for every Tom Dick and Harry; Maybe it’s time to at least consider Tom and Dick. Harry can wait.

Apple’s strategy was to offer iPhones in the US and Europe on contract through its partners the carriers AT&T, Verizon, Sprint and T-mobile among others. The iPhone is currently at $199 for the 5s and $99 for the 5c while the 4s is free on contract in the US. This was working just fine until Samsung. The growth of Samsung shook Apple so badly that it immediately acknowledged competition when it unleashed its legal arsenal on the Korean giant. Unfortunately the suit may have done more harm than good as we earlier predicted.

The problem started when Samsung and other notable rivals (HTC, LG, Huawei, Sony Acer, HP Dell Lenovo among others) started offering cheaper or more affordable alternatives to the iPhones, iPad and the Mac books consistently chewing into Apple’s market. At first they looked like Apple wannabes and copy cats but later many of them actually started innovating and producing awesome products which slowly gained traction.

The reactionary release of the longer iPhone then a plastic one plus a mini iPad proved that Apple was no longer leading but following. Even though Macbooks are arguably still the best laptops on the market, the question remains are they as profitable as they used to?

2. Product: Its Time To Listen To The People

When Steve Jobs came back to Apple, it’s said that he reduced Apple’s products from 40 to 4 so that they could focus rather than aimlessly shoot and miss. At this point, Apple was still leading the innovation front and Steve Jobs believed that people didn’t know what they want and would take what you give them as long as its good. The combination of a good product and effective marketing was magical

But this only worked for a while…

That kind of marketing Orientation is called “Production Orientation” where companies believe that if they can pack as many features into a product, people will love it. Unfortunately, the changing times have shown that people actually know what they want and making what people want and not what you think they may want can help you sell better – “Market Orientation” .

This is seen in how Apple has taken its time to make a larger display, or improve its battery or make a smaller tablet/phablet amid multiple suggestions to do the same. As a result, Apple has became reactionary with rumours once again about a possible Phablet and a cheaper iMac.

Companies spend millions of dollars in research and development which also involves finding out what people want and predicting their changing needs and trends so as to remain relevant. Failure to do so culminates into the Blackberry or Nokia kind of Situation.

The Problem on the Product front is that there are currently multiple good enough alternatives to all Apple products and as such Beautiful design and Craftsmanship are no longer enough to keep you on top.

Companies now have to go the extra mile in finding the intersection between beauty and functionality/benefits while keeping ahead on the innovation front to change existing products into disruptive devices that can be used on our everyday lives as seen with the iPod.

3. Place: US Market Getting Saturated

Not so long ago, Apple products were predominantly American and having an Apple product was left to the affluent who could afford to travel abroad and then spend thousands of dollars on gadgets. In short, Apple products were not easily accessible outside of the US. Companies like Blackberry had an African stronghold in countries like Nigeria and South Africa that drove massive sales. So gone are the days when you could ignore Africa and still survive as a global brand.

With Samsung and Microsoft inventing all sorts of initiatives to gain and retain an African market share, Apple up until now doesn’t seem to see this as necessary. With the US market getting saturated, they will have to expand into other countries and continents in order to effectively compete as they are beginning to do with Europe and Asia.

With the likes of Samsung selling millions of pieces in markets other than Asia using multiple distribution channels, Apple is going to have to think more globally than ever before as the American market may no longer be enough to enable them stay on top.

4. Promotion: Am I Hearing Benefits Or Just Fancy Features & Software Gimmicks?

Apple used to pride itself in being different and they rode on the mantra of “Think Different Be different” for a while. The difference between then and now is that Apple is slowly stopping to communicate benefits and starting to focus more on features. Devices are thinner, faster, and apparently “smarter” but its getting harder to cite a real benefit in the heap of all marketing lingo.

When Steve Jobs was launching the iPhone he cited the issues smartphones had then and how the iPhone was going to solve them. But now we don’t solve issues, we are more into how many fancy tricks my phone can perform. If this kind of marketing tone continues, I am afraid people are going to see right through it and soon enough it will be harder to get people to adopt these products because they see no tangible benefits.

The Above are some of the challenges Apple is facing in keeping it’s cool and whatever the future of Apple is, I can safely say that they aren’t having an easy time now. With the need to continuously innovate disruptive products, while finding new ways to market them right staying cool has never been harder. Considering the theory of “Product Life Cycle”, may be the time for an “Apple Killer” is nigh just like Apple did to Blackberry. For now only time will tell.

Image: Business Insider

About Onyait Odeke

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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.

This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.

This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.

READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda

“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”

Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”

The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:

  • SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
  • Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
  • Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
  • Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.

Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.

Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]

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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.

The key launches included:

  • CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
  • MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
  • MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
  • TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.

Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”

“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”

Laury Bai, TECNO CMO

Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”

James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek

CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography

TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.

Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer

The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”

Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud

The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.

TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability

To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”

Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK

Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.

MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers

The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.

World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14

Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.

TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.

Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm

In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.

The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series

TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.

TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future

Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.

Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.

Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.

With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.

Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]

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