The conventional wisdom about Apple is coalescing, and the Washington Post is there: “Does Apple have an innovation problem?”
Ah, yes. [Steeples hooves, puts on glasses, furrows brow, puffs thoughtfully on bubble pipe …]
Does. Apple. Have. An. Innovation. Problem.
Well, see, this is fine, of course, because all the Washington Post’s Craig Timberg is doing is asking if Apple has an innovation problem. Is it irresponsible to ask? No. It is irresponsible not to. Like asking “Do all writers at the Washington Post commit immoral acts with fish?”
We owe it to our readers to ask the tough questions. Our readers, and ourselves.
Nearly three years have passed since Apple last revolutionized the world of consumer electronics, with the release of the iPad.
And what have you done for us lately, Apple? Forget the fact that other companies are still struggling to catch up to the iPad. What have you done?
Such expectations arguably would be unfair for most companies, but Apple built its loyal following on the ability to not merely move into markets but also create them.
True. But two things about that: First, even Apple needs time to innovate. Second: Apple is undervalued, even when judged by normal company standards.
But wait. All is not dumb with the world. Is it possible we’re seeing a backlash against the stupid? Have things reached peak bozo, a point that even the usual bozos think is too much bozo?
Well, probably not, but at least a few have said “enough.” Even The Weekly World News of Wall Street, Forbes, has published a tongue-in-cheek piece about the ridiculous expectations Apple’s being held to. Of course, that won’t stop it from turning around and publishing some conventional “Apple fail” wisdom tomorrow.
Rocco Pendola also notes the absurdity of how “All of a Sudden, Apple ‘Sucks.’”
But, here’s the deal: Other than flimsy cases for the lady of the night of mobile operating systems—Google’s (GOOG) Android—false optimism over Research in Motion’s (RIMM) Blackberry 10 and way below the radar hype for strong-selling Samsung phones, the haters ain’t got nothing to legitimately replace Apple with.
Pendola advises investors not try to fight the negative tidal wave, which the Macalope supposes is probably the right thing to do. Of course, if there’s no point in investing in Apple because of market stupidity, what does that say about the market overall?
Nothing you don’t already know, probably.