Apple has become one of the most recognized and valuable companies in the world. They

use one or more of the three generic strategies discussed in the book on pages $140-154($top of page $154).$ The objective of this question is to analyze the generic strategy used by Apple. I think we can all agree that, somehow, they continue to persuade the vast majority of us to buy their goods, even though their goods are considerably more expensive than the competition. For example, the price range for a pair of new air pods from Apple is between $$160\mathrm{.}00$ to $$550\mathrm{.}00.$Yet, a pair of imitation wireless earbuds only costs $$25\mathrm{.}00.$ Both have similar functionality. What

makes us buy the seemingly much more expensive pair? Are these air pods THAT much better?

Think about our conversations regarding market gaps and placement.

Answer the questions below:

$1)$ List and describe which generic strategy you think they utilize best to create a competitive

advantage to sell their products and services.

$$ For example, if you think they mostly use the broad differentiation strategy, explain how

they use it to create a competitive advantage? Do they even have a competitive

advantage? Are their products just superior? Do they rely on a cult following?

$2)$ Describe your view of Apple$$s competitive advantage.

$3)$ Describe their position in the marketplace. Why do you think they possess this position? How

did they win this position?

$$ For example, are they number one in their marketplace in terms of revenue? If so$,$ why

do you think that and how they got there?

$4)$ Describe what pitfalls, if any, they might encounter along the way.