Apple: the Next IBM?

The I-Phone maker and others in the ‘Big 3’ may be cash-rich, but spotting new trends is critical to stand the test of time, say experts

- Ians

The origin of International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) dates back to 1911, easily making it the longest-surviving technology firm till date. Stressing that “Apple will be around a long time, like IBM”, Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak believes that his company — along with Google and Facebook — will be bigger in 2075 and dominate the world of technology.

“Apple will be around (for) a long time, like IBM. Look at Apple’s cash ($246.1 billion, at the end of its last fiscal quarter). It can invest in anything. It would be ridiculous to not expect them to be around (in 2075). The same goes for Google and Facebook,” Wozniak has said.

The two Steves — Jobs and Wozniak — co-founded Apple in 1976 to develop and sell personal computers. Later, Ronald Wayne joined them as the third co-founder. The company was incorporated as Apple Computer Inc in 1977 and was renamed Apple Inc in 2007 to reflect its shifted focus toward consumer electronics.

According to Canada-based global investment bank RBC Capital Markets, benefiting from its expensive “plus” models and rising demand for its products, Apple will be worth at least $824 billion this year.

Can Apple become the next IBM, score 100 and remain not out?