The most serious threat may be in Apple's desire to thrust the iPhone into the enterprise realm, through support for features like increased security and push e-mail. While all smartphone manufacturers may be at risk, Apple is encouraging widespread native software development, which may not only attract consumer Mac sales, but also businesses looking to ensure maximum compatibility.

Microsoft is also said to have made some critical blunders, such as the Zune, which was intended to combat the iPod but has become just another competitor, in spite of massive investment and an improved second generation. For a time, the player was incompatible with its flagship Windows Vista operating system.