Apple still has something special to offer over the Android competitors: tighter hardware/software integration, a bit more simplicity, greater stability, and above all, greater security. Some of the anti-virus companies are offering Android products, if that tells you anything. Apple has tight control over the contents of their store and what can be installed on their products.
When I decided to buy a smart phone, I did a LOT of reading and then “kicked the tires” for hours at the local retail store before settling for the iPhone 4S. I had initially been inclined to go with Android, because as a Linux user, I prefer open source instead of proprietary systems. I certainly don’t like the iTunes interface. In spite of all that, I finally concluded that the iPhone and iOS were the best bet. A year later, I still have no regrets. I will always sacrifice some glitz and pizzazz for a solid product.
That "tight integration" was the direct result of strong leadership that was pursuing an integrated vision, coherent at over a wide range of abstractness.
The strong leader was Jobs, who - when he heard a proposal or saw a new technology - knew instinctively whether it would or would not "work" within his framework.
“Apple has tight control over the contents of their store and what can be installed on their products.”
I’ve bought and replaced 2x as much apple gear as I have for myself, in presents and gifts for family.
The next game changer will come from improved battery life....give me a device that I won’t have to constantly charge...now that would add some serious value.