Sorry, but I’m not buying it.
In my experience consumer desire for “standards” is weak and fickle, and can switch to a new “standard” overnight.
The only exception seems to be in the area software providing the equivalent of the public square. In such a circumstance, folks with something to say will gather where there are more ears.
Hence it would be very difficult for a newcomer to successfully challenge FR as a conservative/constitutionalist forum. Or, for anyone to challenge Facebook as a social networking tool. But, don’t forget, Facebook had to challenge the once leading “Myspace” and win in order to gain that dominance. It is possible even if unlikely that someone could knock Facebook off, even at this stage. After all Facebook, is notoriously clunky and inconvenient to use with an interface like a puddle of dog vomit..
As for handphones, or handphone OS, the dynamic is entirely different and the fall from grace can be swift and relentless, as witness Nokia.
In the smart phone market Android is currently selling around 70%, so apple is becoming a niche product already in that market.
In the tablet market I-Pad is still dominant, however the Android devices are just getting started. Microsoft is also just getting started. I saw a survey that 50% of businesses plan to standardize on the Microsoft tablet.
That’s just it. Android has good enough a cheaper, Microsoft has Office and Enterprise domination to pull buyers in.
What is the compelling reason to buy Apple products?
Historically they have been quality products and ahead of the curve. But the competition has caught up to them right now.