There are many brands that consumers gravitate towards over their competitors. However, among these, the loyalty Apple enjoys is unparalleled.
Founded in California in 1976, Apple Computer Inc. began as a small technology firm seeking to change how the public saw computers. Since then, the brand has been at the forefront of innovation and has grown into an international conglomerate valued at almost $3 trillion—trailing just behind market leader Microsoft.
As of 2024, more than one billion people internationally use Apple products. These range from the brand’s most popular, the iPhone, to everyday computing devices like the MacBook, Mac Pro, iMac, and Mac Mini. For these fans, no other brand will suffice, and the reasons detailed below explain why.
Innovation
Whether or not you’re a fan of Apple, there is no denying that the brand is where it is today due to its tireless innovation. While Microsoft’s Windows quickly became the go-to for personal computing needs, Apple has diversified into many other areas while improving its desktop and laptop computer offerings.
One of the brand’s most innovative inventions was the now-famous iPod, originally released in October 2001. Offering storage for more than 1,000 songs in MP3 format and a battery that could last almost 10 hours, the device spread like a worldwide wildfire. By 2022, when the device was discontinued, it had sold more than 450 million units worldwide.
Music devices aside, the Apple iPhone was also the world’s first smartphone to appear on the market. Launched in June 2007, the phone set the stage for a mobile revolution that continues today. The phone, which has become a status symbol in many countries, is updated yearly, with the iPhone 15 having an almost six-week waiting period due to its popularity and what many consider “must-have” features.
Ease of Use
Alongside innovative products, Apple is unique because it doesn’t use operating systems developed by outside companies. Instead, all devices manufactured by the brand use the Apple system, which varies among devices (e.g., iOS, watchOS, and macOS).
The operating systems designed by the firm are lightweight and intuitive, allowing easy access to the things consumers use most. As such, many have commented that Apple systems are easier to use and navigate—especially for older generations who may have trouble with new technologies.
Design
Although almost all devices (particularly smartphones) share similar design styles, Apple has always been lauded for its unique design. The primary reason for this is the brand’s ability to create sleek devices that house powerful hardware in as thin a form factor as possible.
This design, coupled with the trademark Apple logo on the back, has captured the attention of consumers for years and is one of the main reasons behind purchases. Apple MacBooks are also revered due to their lightweight design and slim appearance, which makes them look more like magazines than laptops.
Updates
Like any software provider, specific tweaks are constantly needed to ensure that devices run in their prime condition. Apple is known for pushing through continuous updates that fix security concerns and bugs in its operating systems and enable new user features.
Users who haven’t yet upgraded to the latest device can still benefit from innovation and experiences through these updates. These updates are also seamlessly delivered to devices and installed without much hassle, allowing users to make the most of new versions of the software without any fuss.
Ecosystem
What has for many years been called a monopoly is also one of the brand’s primary selling factors. The Apple ecosystem, in which all versions of the brand’s software operate, is a unique system that allows easy data and information sharing across Apple devices.
Sharing across this ecosystem allows users to work or enjoy entertainment on one device and seamlessly transition to another—picking up where they left off. Sharing files among other Apple users using technology like AirDrop is also due to this extensive system, which allows users to share their experiences more easily.
Resell
Because of the premium parts used to build Apple devices, these are known to hold their value long after purchase. As such, users who wish to sell their devices on the second-hand market can get considerably more money back than they could with most other brands.
In addition to retaining value, Apple offers a trade-in option in various regions. This is common, with many solutions on the market provided by other brands, such as Samsung, allowing the same. However, this option will enable users to get the latest Apple device at drastically reduced pricing and help the company recycle old products responsibly.
Status and Brand Loyalty
Owning an Apple device is a status symbol in many regions due to the brand’s exclusivity in these regions, with only certain members of society able to afford the elevated prices of the latest gadgets.
The brand has not condoned this status and exclusivity, but Apple has also failed to condemn it. In recent years, it has come under fire for this, with campaigns like the Green Bubble Campaign bringing the company to the world’s attention—ultimately forcing it to change certain practices.
Alongside this status, however, is sheer brand loyalty. Many Apple product users enjoy the abovementioned factors and have become loyal to the brand they know and love. As such, when searching for a new device, Apple is first in their minds, and many refuse to switch devices because they use the Apple ecosystem extensively.
Support
One of the final reasons Apple users love the brand’s products is the extensive support the company offers, particularly for those who opted for the extended AppleCare+ warranty. There are various ways to access support, and Apple’s customer service has a reputation for being friendly and efficient.
In addition, brand support is often personalized for each user, meaning consumers can get their queries sorted out quickly via a hassle-free experience whenever they need extra help.