In looking at the case some assumptions were made on total units sold by each organization. This was based on the statement that Apple controlled at one point 60 - 80 % of the overall MP3 market. Price comparisons are based on the entry level product in the hard disk market of MP3 players for each company since some companies did not have a second offering that could be compared. Additionally it is noted that Scan Disk did not have a product offering in this group.
The overall competitive position on Sony and Creative is good. Each is behind the leader Apple but each brings its own positive features to bear. Creative brings an excellent product to the table but does not have the product branding required to compete effectively. Dell has the branding name but does not have the market presence it should. From a pricing and customer satisfaction perspective it would appear to be a quality product. Sony has the ability to succeed; but with their entrance into the market with a proprietary interface, could scare the knowledgeable consumer away from their product line. iRiver has a very strong presence in the Asian market and will be a strong competitor there. Scan Disk does not provide a product in the market but has a major strength in the flash memory.
Archos is in trouble loss of revenues and reduction in work force sounds like major steps in trying to right a wrong ship. There primary strength appears to be in the foreign market.
Hard Drive Tech
Apple: IPOD 30 GB $299 60 GB $399
Archos Gimini XS 202 20 GB $249 XS 400 20 GB $329
Creative ZEN Sleek 20 GB $269 ZEN Vision 30 GB $399
Dell Digital JukeBox Pocket 5 GB $169 DJ 30 GB $239
iRiver ...