Apple 2.0 must innovate with IP management

Check out some of the many Apple Patents at PatentlyApple - as mentioned in class, Apple is positioning themselves well to ramp up in the IP management business. I'd argue that the future of innovation at Apple is what they do with their IP - they will innovate by becoming more open.

This is an image of a recent patent they were granted. 


My internship this summer made me realize that IP, specifically patents, is a vital part of any innovation strategy. How many patents you have, who you license or sell them to, and how you drive that process all play into your innovation 'style'. Also important is what patents you bring in from the outside. Traditionally, Apple designs in house and they protect IP like their first-born child - they're VERY closed.

Here's a way to look at open vs. closed


This open vs. closed innovation spectrum will play a big role for Apple 2.0. IBM has led the pack for 20 years in granted patents, but also in revenue generated from Patent licensing. Notice Samsung, Microsoft, and Sony on this list - where's Apple? I've been looking for patent revenue data but have yet to find a good source.