| Re: India dumpyard for Apple !!
I think Apple sees it this way - oh and I could be completely off the target on this one.
1. Launch a new product in US (Apple is a US based company). Lets call it Day 0 country.
1(a). Streamline production & shipping
2. Launch in international markets - preferably those that have been traditionally important market. Day 1 countries
2(a). Streamline production & shipping
3. Launch in other countries.
3(a). Repeat
I think their strategy depends on device rather than a singular view of the world. For example, iPhones can be bought on credit (2year plan) in some countries whereas would have to be bought outright in others (India). In such a scenario they target countries where credit facilities (for their products iPhone in this case) are better.
Now lets throw in global travel in the mix. Almost all those in India that can afford an iPhone will get an iPhone from international markets. This leads to a chicken and egg situation. If almost all those that can have my products already have them then what is the need to supply through official channels for the remaining (miniscule proportion of the ) population.
If you consider computers then the latest models are available in India. Admittedly there is a delay post launch but that would always be there - approvals, etc. The latest Thunderbolt MBPs were not available in Singapore till 2/3 weeks after their launch in US.
Regarding the iPads. Well I think even Apple was shocked by the response iPad got. There have been delays in launching it in various countries.
Well, iTunes is a sad story indeed. I wish they had it but think about it. How many of us would really visit iTunes for media needs. | 
24th April 2011, 17:14
