Whenever Apple launches a new type of product, the potential is clearly there that it might start to remove interest from a pre-existing line. The iPhone made the iPod less popular, the iPad made the laptops/netbooks less popular and the iPad mini has the potential to upset “full size” iPad sales. But, according to Tim Cook, it’s something the company has become used to, and refuses to allow it to be the main reason behind not going with a specific product.

Tim Cook was asked by an analyst how he felt sales of “older iPads” would be affected by the launch of a cheaper, smaller version. His response:

“The way we look at this is that, we provide a fantastic iPod touch, we provide an incredible fourth generation iPad, iPad mini and iPad 2. Customers will decide which one, or two, or three or all four they would like and will buy them.” 

In fact, he refused to be drawn in to the “old” terminology when referring to devices that have been around previously. As far as the Apple CEO is concerned, everything they have on offer right now is new.

Personally, I’m grateful that Apple’s product launches aren’t decided by marketing experts, or people concerned with affecting sales of their other offerings. If Cupertino’s designers had worried about cannibalization, we’d never have had the iPhone and after that the iPod touch or iPad. So, kudos to Apple for having the guts to release new and innovative products. Not many other companies take such bold steps.

Via: Apple Insider