The Forbidden Fruit

When I was growing up, Apple [AAPL:NASD] was the not-so-great computer system that nobody ever had. Microsoft [MSFT:NASD] was basically the only player in the computer programming and technology industry. However, over the last decade, Apple has emerged with popular and profitable products, which have allowed Apple's shares to hit all-time highs, again.

Since the first days of March, Apple's stock has continued to break all-time highs week after week. On Tuesday, the stock announced earnings and the stock soared to new heights. Apple's products have built a loyal fan base, and that has been the key to their success.

It all started in 1998 with the iMac, a revamped Macintosh computer better than earlier versions. In the years following, iMacs or "Macbooks" became popular for their superior video and music editing, obtained through buyouts and unique technology.

But their brand name became mainstream when they invented some small mp3 player called the iPod. A decade later, it seems everyone wears those famous white headphones. They created many versions of the iPod which gave consumers choices in price range and services offered, such as the Touch and the Mini.

During the days of Napster and Limewire, many questioned why anybody would pay for music when it can be obtained so freely and iTunes was not universal. Many did not expect Apple to succeed at all, but those people were wrong, and although free music can be downloaded, people still like their iTunes because of its many services beyond just downloading music.

In 2007, they would enter the phone industry and change everything. The iPhone was in high demand, and eventually allowed creative and imaginative entrepreneurs to develop applications that allowed people to play games, measure sleeping patterns, or find local restaurants.

And lastly, in 2010, they released the iPad, a multi-media tablet. Early sales have shown considerable strength, but whether the novelty effect wears off or not remains to be seen.

Apple has changed the face of many industries in the last decade and many are excited to see what they have in store. It seems like they have touched every corner of the technology world: computer, telephone, televisions, and music. It seems like there isn't any where else they can expand to, but that's the great thing about this company. Although I don't own any Apple products myself, the company's revival has been magnificent to follow. They are the perfect example of how investing in a company that produces great products can pay off for you.