themizarkshow wrote:
At least from my perspective, these are all "gimmicks" from companies trying to find a way to distinguish this years model from last years model. For years, I was on a yearly upgrade model, but gave it up after there really was no change between what I have vs what I could get.
I think that is being reflected in how Apple is splitting its phones into a regular and pro model, where the "regular" iPhone is basically last years "pro" phone being repackaged without a camera or feature they're saving for the Pro users. I wouldn't be surprised if more hardware companies start staggering their big releases from a yearly cycle to bi-yearly until the next big thing happens (Augmented Reality?). The software isn't changing much these days, and the hardware is hitting a wall in terms of how fast they can innovate vs actually produce at scale.
Aside from smartphones with stylus' (for better control in selecting screen options), and smartphones with replaceable batteries (for environmental concerns), TECH. gimmicks are pervasive.
The discussion thread in this forum, 'TECH Concerns, Pet Peeves, Whys & Why Nots Of TECH Etc. Etc.' may be of interest.