While there was talk in the industry and among consumers that Apple was losing its "cool factor," the unveiling of the new iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus proved everyone wrong. Tim Cook's keynote a few weeks ago demonstrated Apple's still got it.
Samsung was busy taking epic selfies at the Oscars, but Apple was quietly working on the next really big thing. Apple's new products, both the iPhone 6 and Apple Watch, gave users much to get excited about. The massive lines comprised of Apple fans at stores camping out to get the new iPhone throughout the country led Apple to a record-breaking win: 10 million phones sold on the first weekend.
Even though this milestone might have been overshadowed by #Bendgate and iOS8 troubles, no one can take away the fact that the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus achieved a record number of preorder sales. The numbers -- and the products -- speak for themselves.
Cook's "one more thing" -- the Apple Watch -- is far more stylish than competing smartwatches, a beautiful timepiece. Of course, the Apple Watch is innovating on what Samsung already introduced to the market, and Apple is betting big on the health angle to take it the extra mile. But why wait until early 2015 to have the watch available to consumers? A big missed opportunity, failing to capture holiday sales.
The innovation continues with Apple's new pay system. Apple Pay will help boost mobile payments, taking this trend to the next level. With your iPhone in hand or while wearing your Apple Watch, you will never need your debit or credit card again. Apple promises to have Pay in more than 220,000 retailers, including Macy's, Whole Foods, Walgreens and Sephora, and they even have the two major credit card sponsors, Visa and Mastercard, on board. The possibilities are endless.
Though innovation plays a big part in the success of the company, it's not necessarily their selling point. The Apple Watch was not the first smartwatch. The iPhone was not the first smartphone.
Apple does not care about being first -- they care about being best. This is why they're breaking records. This is why they have developed such a passionate fan base. The attention to detail, the beautiful design, the simplicity of Apple products... these are all Steve Jobs' legacy, and factors that will ensure Apple will be around for a long time. I can't wait to see what they come up with next.