Well, if Apple would have sold sub-$1,000 machines in the previous
quarter (Q1) like Performa in '96, then Apple wouldn't lose much of
market share. But, Performa leftovers in the inventory cause Apple to
turn around difficultly in Q2, Q3 of '97. Rather, Apple has switched
its strategic plan to sell more high-end machines and given up its
low-end boxes, the result has shown in Q1 reports. Hence, I wonder if
Apple could sell low-end boxes to capture more market share rather
than more profitable. Of course, 40%+ of PC sales are derived from
sub-$1000 machines, but should Apple focus on real profits or should
it create more low-ends for market share is depending upon what you
think. I rather Apple has healthy revenue/net than market share most
derived from low-ends.
Of course, if Apple could sell low-ends with little inventory problem
as well as with handsome profits, then that is the way to go. But,
I have no clue at this point. It is skeptical to have Apple sell
$650 low-ends like Compaq did now. But, maybe I am wrong about this.
Phil |
