Sony Aibo Case Study free essay sample

The new AIBO came with new software options as well. After adding wireless LAN technology, Sony has unveiled its new â€Å"entertainment architecture†, dubbed OPEN-R, which provided third-party developers with the ability to create any number of software applications as well as hardware modules. Though priced at whopping $2,500, $1,500 the second generation, Sony’s profit margin on the AIBO was close to zero. It is the software applications and hardware modules developed by Sony and third-party developers that makes money for the company. AIBO has created such a stir that only two products had in the history of Sony: the original Walkman and the Playstation game console, far exceeding the developers’ expectations. It is such a success in Japan; the American market is not that hot. Par of the reasons were the culture differences between these two countries. In Japan, many people live in small apartments where real pets are not allowed. And Japan has a large elderly population, to whom a companion without any inconvenience is perfect. We will write a custom essay sample on Sony Aibo Case Study or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Besides, robots in Japanese culture are heroes and Japanese are so fascinated about high-technology while to older Americans, too lifelike technology is dangerous and threatening. Apart from the culture elements, most customers were confused of what Sony was selling. The confusion was compounded by the release of a number of low-end knock-offs. The performance of five years’, six prototypes’, and millions of yen’s outcome, AIBO, is so obviously superior to those cheap imitations, it is difficult to consider these knock-offs â€Å"competition†. At the other end of the competitive spectrum are robots that can â€Å"do something† perform â€Å"serious† household tasks. Admitting that these types of â€Å"functional† robots were much easier for Americans to understand, Sony has provided new software applications so that AIBOs can read emails and pre-selected websites and owners can remotely control their AIBOs’ movements. With more and more software applications and hardware modules being built on the base of OPEN-R technology, the possibilities are really limitless. As to broaden the American market, I think several questions should be considered before making the decision of whether Sony should begin mass advertising. What is the popularity of AIBO in America? What are the main concerns that stop Americans to reach into their pocket to pay for an AIBO? Standing in the Americans’ shoes, what do they want from a robot dog? Will sales of AIBO be stimulated by the mass advertising? Is the return going to be enough to cover the cost of mass advertising? Which medium might be the best way to touch the audiences? Further analysis of American market and culture should be done before making the decision. Since Sony has created AIBO Town, a magazine for AIBO devotees, and Cartoon industry is very mature in Japan, AIBO cartoon, AIBO comic books, AIBO video games and a series of AIBO related products can create infatuation with the robotic dogs, and the popularization of robotic dogs, vice versa, will promote the sales of the derivatives. The possibilities of AIBO are limitless. With more and more applications developed, AIBO can be a functional companion. For instance, AIBO could be used to guide blind people, the sensor can get information of the owner’s health condition when he/she touches an AIBO’s head, AIBO can play music, the owner can monitor his/her house when traveling, AIBO can work as a projector, etc. The price of the AIBO can not be much lower than the cost of manufacturing cost, or the margin profit. As AIBOs are equipped with more and more functions, people have a clearer understanding of what Sony is selling and are more willing to pay for them.

France Vs England During 17th century essays

France Vs England During 17th century essays During the 17th century, two very different types of governments developed in Europe. In France, Louis XIV established an Absolutist State, while in England, Elizabeth I followed a Parliamentary government. Even though, Louis XIV and Elizabeth I saw a brilliant flourishing in their kingdoms, only one of them had the power to rule successfully. In France, Louis XIV ruled by Divine Right and had the absolute control of his kingdom during his long reign. He took several steps to assure his authority above everyone in France. First, he only allowed the nobles who supported him to retain their titles. Second, he revoked Edict of Nantes that forced the Hugnenots (French Protestants) to convert to Catholicism or die. Then, he started his move toward building his splendid palace, which known as the Versailles (located outside Paris). He needed a finance minister, so he hired Colbert to strengthen the economy and trade of France. Louis XIV was an extremely authoritive king, but people called him the Sun King for they witnessed how France was a place of art and glory. In England, Elizabeth I followed a Parliamentary government, which allowed her to rule her people, and in the time, satisfy Parliament with her kingdom policies. Elizabeth I aimed for peace and security to England, which was why she didnt allow any religious strives to arise in her it. Therefore, her first step was to promote Protestantism within England. Then, she chose excellent advisors and she expanded the English Navy which stunned the world of its defeat to the Spanish Armada. Elizabeth I never got married and was wedded to England, that was why people called her the Virgin Queen. France and England had excellent rulers, however, England was ruled successfully, without any economical or political problems. Even though Louis XIV ruled with absolute control, he still wasnt completely wise in the decisions he took toward the H ...