The Worldwide Developer's Conference: The Ecosystem of Apple

        I know I know, I have already talked about Apple last time but this time isn't about some deal. This time its about there Worldwide Developers Conference they host every year in San Francisco. Now the conference is used to showcase new software technologies and programs for developers. So the first matter we have to get out of the way is that this conference is intended for developers not consumers. So if you watched the keynote Monday and at the end said, "so what did they announce other than software updates" then you are like me. But lets try to look at the picture from Apple's perspective.

Apple's Positioning 

        The conference this year certainly didn't set off any fireworks, but from Apple's perspective they are trying to feed programmers with the tools they need to make their own fireworks. The conference was not about updating their product line, (which I desperately wish they did)  but was about connecting their products and updating their software with new features and easier ways for developers to write code. These announcements were certainly a positive for coders and developers but for consumers and investors, we were not very impressed. Early media coverage has mixed thoughts. Some media outlets focus on the positive of what they said, the new apps including a health and home app, the new finger recognition software and how it can be used through 3rd party apps, and more. Some media outlets focused on the negative what they said, what they didn't say. No new flashy watches or Apple Beat head phones has consumers disappointed. So in reality Apple addressed the glass half full instead of half empty.

My take on WWDC 2014

      I watched most of the key note speech presented by CEO Tim Cook as well as other developers and Apple assistants who presented various presentations and demos of the new software updates a preview of IOS 8 and other new apps. I am not a developer nor am I a enthusiast of coding. But I can understand the positives of the new software they released. The beginning Mr. Cook took shots at Google, then went on to explain its developing software and how it is now much easier to use as well as a new health app that can put charts of your health onto one screen. (I guess that's why they hired some renowned doctors) They also have a new home app that synchronizes all of your home security needs in one app. Tim Cook introduced updates to the Icloud, which connected their applications and devices together. They touched on how they have given more customization and speed into their developing software by using their new software which makes it more easier for developers to use. Apple also emphasized how this new update will not compromise on their well known safety features. 

What To Take From The Conference

      I might of missed a couple of points from the keynote but I got the highlights and there is some conclusions I would take from the conference that are important. Apple made strides to connect all of their devices, update their interface, add some more apps, and make it easier for developers to develop. As an investor and from the big picture, this isn't much and is why Apple fell on Monday. The small picture though has some pretty big implications. Obviously the absence of new products is a red flag for investors, but the strides it made with its developing software is a sign new developers can now be able to make big money apps easier and faster. Also its home and health apps shows how its incorporating its brand into more markets. From an investing stand point that's a good sign. Mr. Cook shared powerful data showing how they have 130 million new customers buying there first Apple product and probably switched from an Android device. (taking a shot at Google) This figure is important because it shows how Apple is still growing and it can retain these customers as well. I didn't like how Tim Cook talked up the update at the end and shared how the new coding software is the biggest thing since the app store. I still wan't to know what the wickedly smart Angela Ahrendts, the former CEO of Burberry who transformed the British company into a money machine with style is going to do at Apple as retail chief. Plus what they plan to do with Dr. Dre's beats. In the end it was a software heavy conference that might of bored consumers, excited developers, and concerned investors. 

In conclusion

       So I end by saying what I've always said about Apple, it  won't be an exciting stock like it was when Steve Jobs was at the helm. But, the anticipation and expectations for something new to come out of Apple is growing and growing. And instead of addressing it, they have made strides to get into new markets, knowing it has lost ground in other markets. "Apple put itself into a great position for the future of their products" but when will those products come out is what everyone is dying to know. Apple has been on a run for the most part because of its fundamentals. It still has a heaping amount of cash, a great dividend yield, and shows great sales from its Iphone's and Ipads, which lets face it, we'll keep buying their new Iphones for as long as they keep updating them. The stock has made a rebound on Tim Cook's reinvestments back into the company, but will not reach new heights until they come out with a new product that consumers will crawl to. Which i'm sure Apple fans will definitely crawl to whatever they have next. Invest with care.