I mentioned this in the other thread, but hardware (and industrial design) is where Apple has greater expertise (and competitive advantage) over the competition. They are widening their moat.
Most of these hardware innovations translate directly to new/enhanced user experiences. And competitors like Google don't build phones - they build software. They are limited to what phone manufacturers (experts in phones - not software) can develop technologically.
This is not to say Android won't have greater market share - I just believe Apple realizes Google as a threat, and now heading in a direction that will be tricky for them to follow.
I think your right on the money there. Tha appeal of Aplle to Le has always been the integration of hardware and software and there's just no one else doing it at the same level. They don't get an unconditional pass from me when the screw up (mice!?) but they really seem to be playing to their competitive advantage with the new iPhone. The hardware is just bar none it seems. (not talking about spec sheets) Or they can certainly sell it as such.
Most of these hardware innovations translate directly to new/enhanced user experiences. And competitors like Google don't build phones - they build software. They are limited to what phone manufacturers (experts in phones - not software) can develop technologically.
This is not to say Android won't have greater market share - I just believe Apple realizes Google as a threat, and now heading in a direction that will be tricky for them to follow.