What's going on at Apple?

There has been a subtle amount of criticism over Apple’s products whether they are IOS based (such as iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch) products or Non-IOS based (iPod Shuffle, iPod Classic, iPod Nano). Apple created a monopoly by launching the iTunes store for these devices. Even, Steve Jobs was summoned to a court hearing for antitrust violations which specifically targeted iTunes and iPods.

When the first iPhone was launched in the year of 2007, it was far beyond a general handset but again it was again criticized for being expensive and lack of 3G support. The strategies of price reduction at Apple has also come under scanner as only 2 months post launch, iPhone price was slashed by $200. The prototype of the iPhone has almost been the same since its launch with revisions in its features and yes not to forget with an increase in the prices.

The work practices and culture at has also been heavily criticized by the International media. Foxconn is Apple’s manufacturing partner in China. An employee suicide at Foxconn has reflected the Apple’s secrecy policy and also the harsh working condition in their Chinese factories. The employee had lost the prototype of iPhone 4, following which he was abused and beaten by his superiors which ultimately led him to commit suicide. Apple has received numerous amount of criticism for its unethical business practices, environmental destruction and the use of sweatshop labor. Additionally, it has been criticized for past demeanour of suing before first accumulating the entire facts essential to chase a legitimate lawsuit.

Apple has been a winner in the market since long through its services, exquisite range of products. However, the prices of Apple products are too high to be afforded by average earning population. So while Apple may know a lot still about how to make cool devices, it seems to have lost its way on pricing. Here's hoping it relearns its lesson.

Thoughts.