Wednesday, January 17, 2007

Apple's iPhone... Maybe in the US

Apple's attempt to crack into the global cell phone industry will come with many hurdles. Sure its sleek design will attract some, but is it enough to capture global users?

Cell technology in Asia is so far beyond that of the US. I especially like how you can buy stuff with your phone... the iPhone should develop a partnership with credit card companies to have a function like Mobile's Speedpass. And then add GSP functions... then Apple's iPhone may compete with markets in Asia. Otherwise... I'm not sure the sleek design will be enough.

Tuesday, January 09, 2007

The Switch to Service

Before regulators decide to take some protectionist policies to "protect" US manufacturing jobs, they should take a good look at the transition of the US employment. Here's a chart that illustrates how "Professional and Business Services" jobs have outnumbered "Manufacturing" jobs. The switch occurred right after the most recent recession, and I would imagine the gap to only grow wider over time.