Core Viewpoint - The article draws a parallel between Kodak's failure to adapt to digital technology and Apple's current challenges in the face of the AI revolution, suggesting that Apple may be experiencing its own "Kodak moment" as it grapples with the implications of AI on its business model and product strategy [2][5][10]. Group 1: Historical Context - Kodak's management buried the invention of the first digital camera in 1975 due to fear of disrupting its film-based business, leading to its eventual bankruptcy in 2012 [2]. - Nokia, once a dominant player in the mobile phone market with a 40.5% share in 2007, failed to innovate effectively due to its closed operating system, which hindered its ability to adapt to the smartphone revolution initiated by the iPhone [3]. Group 2: Current Challenges for Apple - Apple's AI strategy, particularly with the release of Apple Intelligence, is perceived as lagging behind competitors like Microsoft and Google, which have adopted more open and flexible approaches to AI development [5]. - The company's traditional hardware-centric revenue model, with iPhone hardware accounting for 51.45% of total revenue in 2024, conflicts with the software and service-oriented nature of AI, raising questions about the sustainability of its business model [5]. Group 3: Internal Dynamics - Significant executive turnover at Apple, including the departure of key figures such as the Chief Human Resources Officer and Chief Financial Officer, raises concerns about the company's commitment to AI investment and strategic direction [8]. - The AI team's turnover rate at Apple reached 34% in 2024, significantly higher than Google's 15.1%, indicating a talent drain to more aggressive AI startups [8]. Group 4: Comparative Analysis - The speed of AI adoption is much faster than that of smartphones, with AI penetration reaching 35% in under three years compared to nine years for smartphones to reach 40% [12]. - The estimated cost to establish a leadership position in AI exceeds $20 billion, highlighting the increased financial burden on traditional tech giants compared to the $12 billion required for smartphone ecosystems [12]. Group 5: Future Implications - The potential for AI to diminish the importance of specific hardware brands poses a fundamental challenge for Apple, as the loyalty to hardware may decline if AI assistants can operate seamlessly across devices [12].