Apple Watch Report
Apple Watch Report
1. Executive Summary...............................................................................................................1
2. Introduction...............................................................................................................................2
2.1. About Apple Inc...............................................................................................................2
2.2. About Apple Watch.........................................................................................................2
3. SWOT ANALYSIS......................................................................................................................3
3.1. Strengths............................................................................................................................3
3.2. Weaknesses......................................................................................................................3
3.3. Opportunities....................................................................................................................3
3.4. Threats................................................................................................................................4
4. STP ANALYSIS...........................................................................................................................5
4.1. Market Segmentation....................................................................................................5
4.2. Market Targeting.............................................................................................................6
4.3. Market Positioning..........................................................................................................8
5. 4P ANALYSIS............................................................................................................................10
5.1. Product..............................................................................................................................10
5.2. Price...................................................................................................................................14
5.3. Place..................................................................................................................................17
5.4. Promotion.........................................................................................................................17
6. Conclusion...............................................................................................................................19
7. List of Figures and Tables..................................................................................................20
8. References...............................................................................................................................21
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1. Executive Summary
This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the marketing strategy behind Apple
Watch, a frontrunner in the competitive wearable technology market.
This report is made to ascertain the marketing tactics Apple utilizes to solidify Apple
Watch's position as a leader within the smartwatch industry.
1.3. Conclusion
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2. Introduction
2.1. About Apple Inc.
Apple Inc. is a multinational technology company headquartered in Cupertino, California.
Apple Inc. is one of the most valuable companies in the world and is famous for their
innovative consumer electronic devices, software, and services.
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3. SWOT ANALYSIS
3.1. Strengths
Brand value. Apple is the leading company in the top 25 world brand values of the year.
With brand power, Apple Watch has recorded revenue growth for many years.
(Brand Finance, 2024)
Customer loyalty. In 2020, Apple Watch held the largest market share in the world, with
36%, approximately 100 million users. With such huge sales volume, Apple shows that its
customers will not leave its brand for another brand. (Counterpoint, 2023)
Outstanding features. Apple has developed an Apple Watch with many advanced
functions, such as physical activity tracking, mobile network connectivity, heart rate, ECG
monitoring capabilities, and the ability to synchronize with other Apple devices. These
attributes make them different in the market and attract users worldwide.
(Apple Inc., n.d.)
Design and aesthetics. What Apple Watch possesses is thin, light touch screen design
with high resolution, and neutral design suitable for all ages. With such a perfect
appearance, even the most demanding customers will be captivated by the beauty of the
smart watch.
Integrated ecosystem. Apple boasts a broad ecosystem, so the Apple Watch can be
easily integrated with other Apple devices. Owing to this great ecosystem, Apple has
retained many customers to stay and use many product lines from its brand.
3.2. Weaknesses
Price. In the smartwatch market, the Apple Watch positions itself at a much higher price than other
competitors, such as Garmin or Fitbit. Because it has a price ranging from 399 USD to 1,399 USD, it is
difficult for customers with a tight budget to access this product line. (H2 Hub, 2023)
Battery life. Through many improvements with many upgrades in both appearance and battery life,
users are still concerned about the usage time of the Apple Watch. Some people find having to
charge a watch every day to be too much of a hassle, especially those who are used to using a watch
with a very long battery life.
Dependence on iPhone. To be able to use the Apple Watch, owning an iPhone is a necessity. The
refusal to own an Apple Watch is understandable for potential customers who are using a
standalone watch or a phone other than an iPhone.
3.3. Opportunities
Health and fitness market. The Apple watch has a lot of promise in the market owing to
consumers' health concerns. Technological developments such as heart rate monitoring,
body movement monitoring, and ECG applications provide the clearest evidence that
Apple is linking up with health application providers and joining the health market. It can
be seen that Apple is benefiting greatly from this trend. (Apple Inc., n.d.)
Expanding into new markets. Apple has wisely expanded its customer base with Apple
Watch products aimed at athletes and the elderly while also targeting developing
markets to help this product line gain popularity. outgrow. Therefore, the use of the
apple watch is expanding. For example, Apple Watch Ultra 2 is for athletes and people
who regularly exercise.
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Services and subscriptions. Leveraging Apple watch user bases, Apple has used
marketing strategies to sell services, such as Apple Fitness+ and Apple Music. Owing to
these policies, Apple has helped improve and enhance customer experience and
generate recurring monthly income.
3.4. Threats
Fierce competition. The smartwatch market is becoming increasingly fierce because of
Apple's competitors, Samsung, Garmin, and Fitbit. Apple is gradually losing its market
share and dominance in the market by continuously offering innovative products with
superior technology that are sold at more affordable prices than its competitors.
(Brittany Vincent, 2024)
Legal barriers. Any changes to rights and laws related to consumer protection and
healthcare policies or data privacy rights could affect how the Apple Watch is developed
and implemented. be marketed. Apple's business operations will become more difficult
and complicated due to compliance with changes in terms and laws.
(“Apple Watch: What to Know About the Legal Disputes,” 2024)
Economic Uncertainty. The economic downturn has dealt with a direct blow to consumer
behavior and purchasing habits; therefore, the purchasing power of luxury items such as
the Apple Watch may be somewhat reduced. It can be seen that the unstable economy
also affects product consumption and sales growth of the product line.
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4. STP ANALYSIS
Fig. 2. Apple Segmentation, Targeting, and Positioning Mind Map (Edrawmind, n.d.)
The map above, as an example, gives us an overall view of Apple’s STP strategy - Apple’s
market segmentation, market targeting, and market positioning. This strategy helps the
company to understand customers’ behavior, therefore applying strategic objectives
effectively.
4.1. Market Segmentation
Apple differentiates its consumer base into three main groups: geographic segment,
behavioral segment, and psychographic segment. (Zhang, 2023)
4.1.1. Behavioral
Apple divides its client base into groups according to their usage patterns,
benefits sought, and loyalty status.
4.1.2. Psychographic
The company focuses on customer lifestyles and personality characteristics.
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It serves consumers with very high levels of design innovation and
uniqueness or those who are just tech lovers; to those who yearn to be
sleek, sophisticated, and high-status, Apple products communicate a
statement that it is a symbol of sophistication, elegance, and
developed technology.
4.1.3. Geographic
Apple pays primary attention first to its most well-established markets, such
as the United States and Canada. It provides features and other offerings that
cater to the tastes and behavioral patterns of its clientèle in these regions.
For example: To meet the growing demand for dual SIM cards among
Chinese consumers, Apple launched the "Dual SIM Dual Standby"
feature in China.
(Zhang, 2023)
Apple has differentiated market targeting, with its primary targets being middle-class to affluent
consumers; with a particular emphasis on tech enthusiasts; and also fashion-conscious people.
- The business frequently expands the length of its product lines, or develops different
product models, offering a wide range of costs to cater to a diverse clientele that includes
both well-off and wealthy individuals.
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Fig. 4. Apple Watch series (Apple Inc., 2024)
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- The products have different technological features for different uses, some
models also offer a wide range of colors for fashion-enthusiast consumers.
(Zhang, 2023)
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Fig. 7. Apple Logo History and Brand Evolution (The Designest, 2022)
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5. 4P ANALYSIS
5.1. Product
Fig. 8. Apple Watch Aluminum, Stainless Steel Case Comparison (Apple Inc. (Belarus), n.d.)
Product Style and Design. Apple Watch products are renowned for their
sleek and modern design, heavily emphasizing minimalist style. With a
range of sizes and materials to choose from, users can tailor their
watches according to their preferences. With options including
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aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium cases, as well as a selection of
strap materials such as leather, stainless steel, nylon, and silicone,
users can create a truly personalized watch. Additionally, customers can
also personalize their unique watches with photos from their library or
select from a variety of watch face options offered by Apple.
5.1.1.2. Branding
Over nearly 50 years, Apple has built a name for itself as a premium
brand associated with luxury, innovation, and quality. Thanks to its
strong value brand, Apple has benefited by fostering trust and loyalty
among customers who are passionate brand advocates. According to
Brand Finance's Global 500 2024 Report (2024), Apple has risen to the
top of the table, becoming the most valuable brand in the world this
year, with 517 billion USD (up 74%), far ahead of other famous brands
such as Microsoft, Google, Amazon, etc (Brand Finance, 2024) . The
investment in the union between advanced technology and excellent
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design helps enhance the perceived value of Apple products in the eyes
of consumers.
Fig. 11. Brand Finance Global 500 2024 (Brand Finance, 2024)
5.1.1.3. Packaging
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most plastic as a way to demonstrate Apple's commitment to
environmental responsibility. (Apple Inc., 2023)
5.1.2.2. Diversification
Apple offers many Apple Watch models with many different feature sets
and prices, suitable for many market segments. For example, high-end
models, typically the Apple Watch Ultra, often contain advanced
features and materials and have extra enhanced capabilities. These
models are often aimed at users who need products with high
performance and durability for extreme activities, such as athletes and
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adventurers. As for the standard models, e.g. Apple Watch Series, it is a
product line designed to appeal to the widest consumers who want a
feature-rich smartwatch at an affordable price, not high like the Ultra.
These lines often have a balance between features and price, also have
many material choices and often focus on health care and fitness
features (blood oxygen, ECG, sleep monitoring). And finally, the Apple
Watch SE, whose target audience is budget-conscious consumers. This
version also offers core functions like fitness tracking, notifications, and
basic health features but at a lower price, although they may have older
technology than the Series versions. Besides, Apple also offers material
and design options, including different case materials (like titanium,
aluminum, and stainless steel) or strap material options (like leather,
nylon, and silicon), this allows customers to customize their smartwatch
according to their wishes and budget.
Apple built the Apple Watch as a product specializing in health care and
fitness, with outstanding features such as the ability to track activity,
heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen monitoring, ECG, sleep monitoring
and exercise instructions. With this product, Apple has succeeded in
penetrating a growing market trend and reaching out to consumers
interested in health and healthy lifestyles. Apple Watch offers health-
related features and services, such as the Health app and Apple
Fitness+, where users can access various exercises led by professional
trainers, and workout from anywhere, making exercising at home more
convenient than ever, thereby helping them lead a more active and
healthier lifestyle.
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Brigham and Women's Hospital, the American Heart Association, and
the University of Michigan and World Health Organization, through a
research project involving a large number of iPhone users and Apple
Watch, Apple has shown the potential application of technology devices
in research and health care (Apple Newsroom (Israel), 2022) . Apple has
also cooperated with high-end fashion brands such as Hermès and
Chanel to create exclusive and limited edition straps that appeal to
fashionistas.
5.2. Price
5.2.1. Pricing Strategy of Apple Watch
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alternatives because they believe that Apple products have exclusivity
and excellent quality.
Apple Watch is valued for the value it brings to users such as access to
many apps and services, connectivity with other Apple devices, and
sophisticated health and fitness tracking features. For example, Apple
promotes the Apple Watch's ability to track workouts, monitor heart
rate, and provide insights into sleep patterns to appeal to health-
conscious consumers. By highlighting the specific benefits of the Apple
Watch compared to other competing products, Apple has helped
strengthen its brand image in the eyes of the public.
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From the table above, we can draw some main observations as follows:
5.3. Place
As shown in the chart above, we can see there are two main categories of Apple
distribution channels, which are direct sales channels and indirect sales channels.
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Apple Online Store. The online store offers a great platform where
customers can browse, buy, and customize Apple Watches with just an
Internet connection. Not only that, here, customers can also fully explore the
store's products as well as compare designs and prices of different models
easily. In addition, online stores also help Apple expand its reach to global
consumers.
Third-Party Online Retailers. These are online stores that sell Apple products
but are not authorized by Apple, such as Amazon, Walmart, and eBay. With
these platforms, Apple can reach a large number of online shoppers, thereby
helping them penetrate new markets and increase sales. In turn, customers
using these platforms also benefit from the convenience of online shopping, as
well as access to pricing options and comparisons of alternatives; however,
providing less customer support.
5.4. Promotion
5.4.1. Mass Media
Apple used television ads, online video ads (YouTube, social media platforms),
and print ads (magazines, select billboards) to showcase the Apple Watch. In
2021, Apple launched a strong mass media campaign for the Apple Watch
Series 7, called "Every Second Counts" (Digital Tripathi, 2024) . The campaign
features a series of ads featuring actual emergency calls to 911 made from an
Apple Watch. With its emotional storytelling, real-life scenarios, and multi-
channel approach, the campaign received critical acclaim and is a successful
example of Apple Watch's mass media marketing. Through this campaign, the
Apple Watch has proven that more than a technological device, it is also an
effective life-saving tool in emergencies.
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5.4.4. Influencer Marketing
Apple incorporates influencer marketing into its Apple Watch advertising
strategy. For example, in the Apple Watch Ultra Challenge with Fitness
Influencers (2023) campaign, a group of famous fitness YouTubers and famous
Instagram athletes participated in a fitness challenge that showcased
advanced metrics, Apple Watch Ultra's durability and GPS capabilities in a
variety of outdoor environments. These people received early access to the
Apple Watch Ultra and were tasked with recording their experiences with the
Apple Watch Ultra throughout the challenge, sharing engaging photos, videos,
and stories on their social media platforms. Some influencers have hosted live
workout sessions on platforms such as YouTube or Instagram, introducing the
functions of the Apple Watch Ultra to their audiences. As a result, influencer
content has helped the Apple Watch Ultra reach a large target audience. Not
only that, they also help build credibility and trust, as well as create
excitement and positive buzz around the new Apple Watch model.
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6. Conclusion
The marketing plan for the Apple Watch which is a well-oiled machine that has been
carefully planned to make the most unique features, strong brand, and customer-focused
approach. As the wearable technology market continues to evolve, Apple's dedication to
innovation and its well-established marketing concepts positions the Apple Watch for
sustained success.
It's been 10 years since the original Apple Watch was released. Apple Watch has plenty
of benefits such as Innovative Features (ECG, heart rate monitoring, fitness tracking, and
integration with other Apple devices), Ecosystem Integration (the Apple Watch
seamlessly integrates with other Apple products such as iPhones, iPads, and Macs),
Strong Developer Support. It holds the largest market share in the smartwatch industry,
with over 100 million people wearing an Apple watch worldwide due to its popularity,
quality products, and position of the brand in the minds of users, although Rival
companies (Oppo, Huawei, or Samsung) continuously introduce new features and
technologies, posing a threat to Apple's market share and dominance. Thanks to
Marketing's operational efforts and effective Marketing policies.
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7. List of Figures and Tables
Fig. 1. Apple Watch series (Apple Inc., 2024)......................................................................................2
Fig. 2. Apple Segmentation, Targeting, and Positioning Mind Map (Edrawmind, n.d.).......................5
Fig. 3. Apple Targeting Segmentation Mind Map (Boardmix, n.d.).....................................................6
Fig. 4. Apple Watch series (Apple Inc., 2024)......................................................................................7
Fig. 5. iPhone models (Apple Inc., 2024).............................................................................................7
Fig. 6. Apple Positioning Segmentation Mind Map (Boardmix, n.d.)..................................................8
Fig. 7. Apple Logo History and Brand Evolution (The Designest, 2022).............................................9
Fig. 8. Apple Watch Aluminum, Stainless Steel Case Comparison (Apple Inc. (Belarus), n.d.)........10
Fig. 9. Apple Watch strap options (Apple Inc., n.d.)..........................................................................11
Fig. 10. Apple Watch case options (Apple Inc., n.d.).........................................................................11
Fig. 11. Brand Finance Global 500 2024 (Brand Finance, 2024)........................................................12
Fig. 12. Apple Distribution Channel...................................................................................................17
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8. References
Apple Inc., 2024. Apple Watch series [WWW Document]. URL https://www.apple.com/vn/watch/
(accessed 5.19.24).
Apple Inc., n.d. Apple Watch - Why Apple Watch [WWW Document]. URL
https://www.apple.com/watch/why-apple-watch/ (accessed 5.19.24a).
Apple Inc., n.d. Create Your Apple Watch Series 9 Style [WWW Document]. URL
https://www.apple.com/shop/studio/apple-watch (accessed 5.19.24c).
Apple Inc., n.d. Apple Watch Nike [WWW Document]. URL https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-nike/
(accessed 5.19.24d).
Apple Inc. (Belarus), n.d. Apple Watch - Compare Models [WWW Document]. URL
https://www.apple.com/by/watch/compare/ (accessed 5.19.24).
Apple Newsroom (Israel), 2022. How Apple is empowering people with their health information [WWW
Document]. URL https://www.apple.com/il/newsroom/2022/07/how-apple-is-empowering-people-
with-their-health-information/ (accessed 5.19.24).
Apple Watch: What to Know About the Legal Disputes [WWW Document], 2024. . Time. URL
https://time.com/6692718/apple-watch-masimo-alivecor-patent-antitrust-legal-explainer/ (accessed
5.19.24).
Brand Finance, 2024. Global 500 2024 Report Published! [WWW Document]. URL
https://brandfinance.com/insights/global-500-2024-report (accessed 5.19.24).
Brittany Vincent, 2024. The best Apple Watch alternatives for 2024 may make you forget about Apple
altogether [WWW Document]. CBS Essentials. URL https://www.cbsnews.com/essentials/best-
apple-watch-alternatives/ (accessed 5.19.24).
Counterpoint, 2023. Smartwatch Market Grows 13% YoY in Q1 2022; Apple Stays First, Samsung Solidifies
Second Place [WWW Document]. URL https://www.counterpointresearch.com/insights/smartwatch-
market-grows-13-yoy-q1-2022-apple-stays-first-samsung-solidifies-second-place/ (accessed 5.19.24).
Digital Tripathi, 2024. Every Second Counts: The Apple Watch 911 Ad Campaign that Gripped the World
[WWW Document].
Inc, A., 2023. Product Environmental Report Apple Watch Series 9 Date introduced.
The Designest, 2022. Apple Logo History: All About Apple Logo Evolution [WWW Document]. URL
https://thedesignest.net/apple-logo-history/ (accessed 5.19.24).
Zhang, R., 2023. Advances in Economics, Management and Political Sciences 29, 24–32.
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