36氪·2025-05-11 13:43Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rise and fall of Nokia, highlighting how it once dominated the mobile phone market but ultimately succumbed to competition from Apple and other tech giants, illustrating the broader narrative of Europe's struggle in the tech industry against the U.S. [3][10][80] Group 1: Historical Context - Nokia's transformation from a rubber factory to a tech giant took just ten years, showcasing its early strategic advantages in global supply chains and technology [9][10]. - The launch of the iPhone in 2007 marked a pivotal moment, as Nokia recognized the threat posed by Apple's innovative approach to mobile technology [4][5]. Group 2: Leadership and Strategy - Jorma Ollila, Nokia's third-generation leader, took over during a time of crisis and successfully led the company to capture 40% of the global mobile market by focusing on innovation and strategic investments [15][46]. - The leadership styles of Nokia's first two leaders, Björn Westerlund and Kari Kairamo, shaped the company's culture and strategic direction, with Kairamo pushing for a more open and innovative environment [44][30]. Group 3: Technological Advancements - Nokia was instrumental in the development of the GSM standard, which became the dominant mobile communication technology in Europe, allowing it to lead the market in the 1990s [49][50]. - The introduction of the Nokia 1011, the world's first GSM phone, marked a significant milestone, leading to widespread adoption and establishing Nokia as a household name [54][56]. Group 4: Competitive Landscape - The competition between Nokia and Apple represents a shift in the tech landscape, where design and user experience became critical factors for success, contrasting with Nokia's earlier focus on hardware [8][64]. - Nokia's failure to adapt to the smartphone revolution and its reliance on the outdated Symbian OS led to a rapid decline in market share as competitors like Apple and Android gained traction [68][74]. Group 5: Lessons and Implications - The rise and fall of Nokia serve as a cautionary tale for companies about the importance of innovation, adaptability, and understanding market dynamics [80][82]. - The article emphasizes the need for companies to maintain strong relationships with allies, users, and developers to sustain competitive advantages in rapidly changing industries [77][82].