Keeping up with the Joneses

Apple's release of new iPhones and iOS7 has been criticized for what analysts claim is a lack of innovation. Such things have been prevalent for years in Operating Systems, productivity software, tablets/mobile phones, etc. Even a slight market share can be earned by ripping off ideas from others, so businesses choose to do so. 

So, what suffers? Innovation. Companies have a limited number of resources. If the resources are dedicated to building features just to stay on par with their competition, how can they move forward? They fear being left behind.

Sometimes marketing and profit needs pushed aside. There's obvious risk, but consumers expect more than nominal improvements. What poses more of a risk? Losing customers to competitors that prioritize/promote innovation or trying to not get left behind.

Consumers compete with themselves and early adoption of technology presents opportunities for some to become more of an asset to their companies or those they serve. This competition drives innovation. Consider this a call for companies to reprioritize their focus. Shift your focus to innovation or get left behind.