Apple Inc. (AAPL) vs Samsung: Battle of the Features

The iPhone 4’s “Retina” display is another great example of the company’s marketing decisions. Where many phone makers might have billed the display as “ultra-high resolution” or “HD,” Apple made it human, saying the screen reached the maximum level of detail that the human retina could perceive. While dubious, the claim hit home with consumers, who flocked to Apple stores to try it out.

Still, Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL)’s reluctance to depend on features also means that it is sometimes reluctant to innovate. The 4S was dinged for lacking 4G connectivity, a problem obvious to consumers whose Android phones sped ahead. And the 5, while increasing screen size vertically, still looks tiny next to many Android phones.

The iPhone 5 was the fastest-selling phone Apple has ever offered, and put a dent in Android’s explosive growth — driving Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) shares to a mind-blowing $705.07 the month it debuted. But while the company’s stock tempts at historic lows, it might be wise to watch for the next version of the iPhone to decide if you’ll take the plunge.

The bottom line

Both companies are at important points in developing their product sets. With the U.S. smartphone market nearly saturated, the developing world is the next battleground, and there Samsung’s focus on price could provide a leg up.The company’s success so far with the Galaxy, as well as its low-cost tablets, make it a safe buy in the short and medium-term.

Apple has undeniable cache with consumers, and with rumors of a low-cost iPhone swirling, the company has the potential to make a splash in the new market. I’m eagerly awaiting Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL)’s next big event in June to see what they have in store for the iPhone — and I think you should too.

The article Apple vs. Samsung: Battle of the Features originally appeared on Fool.com and is written by Steven Yenzer.

Steven Yenzer owns shares of Apple. The Motley Fool recommends Apple. The Motley Fool owns shares of Apple. Steven is a member of The Motley Fool Blog Network — entries represent the personal opinion of the blogger and are not formally edited.

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