Microsoft and Apple, founded in 1975 and 1976 respectively, are two of the biggest tech players with both having unique strengths and weaknesses. While Microsoft dominates in the PC market, with over 80% of the market share for desktop operating systems, Apple leads the mobile device market, holding over 27% of the smartphone market share. Both companies are highly profitable, with Microsoft’s 2020 revenue at $143.015 billion, compared to Apple’s revenue of $274.515 billion. Both companies are innovative with Microsoft currently focused on artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and gaming, while Apple has been experimenting with augmented reality and health-tech.
Introduction
Microsoft and Apple are two of the biggest players in the tech industry, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this article, I will compare and contrast these two technology giants to determine who reigns supreme in the tech world.
History and Background
Microsoft was founded in 1975 by Bill Gates and Paul Allen. The company’s early focus was on developing software for personal computers, and it quickly became the dominant force in the PC market, thanks in large part to the success of its Windows operating system.
Apple, on the other hand, was founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne. The company’s early focus was on developing personal computers, and it gained a loyal following of users who appreciated the company’s user-friendly interface and intuitive design.
Product Lines
Microsoft’s product line includes the immensely popular Windows operating system, as well as its Office suite of productivity software. The company also offers gaming consoles (Xbox) and a cloud services platform (Azure), among other products.
Apple’s product line is focused primarily on consumer electronics. Its flagship products include the iPhone, iPad, and MacBook, as well as accessories like AirPods and the Apple Watch. The company also has a strong presence in the music industry through its iTunes platform.
Market Share
When it comes to market share, Microsoft has a clear advantage in the PC market. As of early 2021, Windows still holds over 80% of the market share for desktop operating systems, while Apple’s macOS has less than 15%.
In the mobile device market, however, Apple is the clear leader. As of the fourth quarter of 2020, Apple’s iOS operating system held over 27% of the smartphone market share, while Microsoft’s Windows Phone had less than 0.2%.
Revenue and Profit
In terms of revenue and profit, both companies are extremely successful. In 2020, Microsoft reported $143.015 billion in revenue and $44.281 billion in net income. Apple, on the other hand, reported $274.515 billion in revenue and $57.411 billion in net income.
Brand Image
Apple is widely viewed as a premium brand, known for its sleek design and high-quality products. Microsoft, on the other hand, is often seen as more of a workhorse brand, focused primarily on productivity and efficiency.
Innovation
Both companies are known for their innovative products and services. Microsoft is currently focused on artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and gaming, while Apple has been experimenting with augmented reality and health-tech in recent years.
Conclusion
So, who reigns supreme in the tech world? Ultimately, it depends on how you define “supreme.” Microsoft dominates in the PC market and has a strong presence in the gaming and cloud computing industries. Apple, on the other hand, is the clear leader in the mobile device market and is known for its premium brand image.
At the end of the day, both companies are extremely successful and have loyal followings of users. It’s up to each individual to decide which one they prefer and which one they think is the true king of the tech world.