Article Feeder Not just your 'average' article directory! Apple Is Luxury Brand But Worth Buying For The High Prices

Why apple's products, including apple's accessories are priced so high? Are these apple items worth buyings? Let's look at Apple's major accomplishments in the past 10 years. Apple has single-handedly revolutionized the computer, mp3 player, smartphone, digital music, electronics retail, and tablet markets. In doing so, it's mastered the gentle art of making powerful products that are easy to use — the perfect complement to great design.
Embedded deep in Apple is a willingness to ignore critics, break the rules, and make products that change the world. It's the uniqueness of the brand that makes Apple different from all of its competitors, and that's why its products sell for a hell of a lot more than the sum of their parts.
Historically, Apple is really a premium brands, because their products always perform well than others. That's why it becomes the premium brand. One analyst who worries the company's prices are too high is worries too over. There's no reason for Apple to drop the price of its Macs to satisfy all the users. As you can see Mac sales are up with the high-end price, Apple's margins are healthy, and people covet Macs more than any other computer on the market. Consumers are drawn to Macs because they provide more perceived value than any other product on the market. And it's that perception that has made Apple's “premium” strategy an unbridled success.
For years, Apple has contended that it's providing more value for more money and it has always been loath to drop the price of its machines to compete on price with competitors. And so far, Apple hasn't made any statement regarding its desire to change that strategy. Apple has the luxury of being, well, a luxury brand. Most consumers don't look at Apple and put the company on the same level as a Dell or HP. For consumers who want to save money on a computer or don't want to worry about learning Mac OS X, Apple isn't a consideration anyway. But for those people who have some money to spend, they want the most value for their money. And although some would disagree with their sentiment, I think many believe they get more value from a Mac than any other company's products.
People who buy Macs aren't looking to save money; they're looking to buy a premium brand because of the perceived value of the product. Apple understands that; we understand that; why don't choose them? Sure, the market is moving towards cheaper alternatives and some people want smaller laptops, but hasn't anyone noticed that over the past few years, Apple's market share has grown considerably in the face of “cheaper” computers? Even there are so some big online stores made Apple accessories as their featured products, especially PickEgg, you can find thousands of creative Apple accessories (http://www.pickegg.com/wholesale-apple-accessories.html) on just their homepage.

Luxury Watches : What they are all about

There are many watches on the market nowadays that claim to bring the glamour and style of a luxury watch. Knowing what to expect from one of these timepieces can make your search for that perfect watch a bit easier. There are different aspects to a luxury watch and everything starts with the name on the back.
 

The name of the brand that made the watch is one of the most essential things. Despite the fact that a luxury watch has to function flawlessly, the main thing that attracts clients is the brand. The exclusivity and history of every luxury watch manufacturer is what can turn a simple watch into a must-have fashion item. Of course, it is not all about the brand, design and style also play big roles in creating a luxury watch. It has to look different, but in a good way, it has to be special, without loosing the classic features of the brand, it has to inspire the most recent fashion trends, but it must also be timeless. Therefore, a luxury watch is not that easy to make but it can be easy to spot one in a crowd.

The quality of the built has to be perfect. You can’t expect for a high end watch to fall behind and not give an accurate time reading. Although the main reason we buy a watch has changed over the years, it doesn’t mean that it should lose its basic time telling feature. Luxury watches are made with the finest materials and the best craftsmanship so you can expect their beauty to be more than just skin deep.

The known brand names, the quality of the pieces and the care that goes into making a luxury watch can only result in a high price tag. This is not really a problem for buyers and actually it is a requirement for luxury watches. A high price also means a bigger level of exclusivity and when you buy a luxury watch, you don’t want to walk down the street and spot five just like it; you want to feel and look special. This is what a luxury watch is all about and as many models turn into collectables over the years, you can expect that it won’t break down anytime soon. A luxury watch will last you a lifetime and it will never go out of style or fall behind with even a second.

BlackBerry P’9981 luxury smartphone announced, courtesy Porsche Design

Research In Motion has partnered with Porsche Design and announced the new Porsche Design P’9981 smartphone from BlackBerry. The handset is designed by Porsche Design and is the company’s first smartphone. The handset was leaked way back and we thought it was probably a fake, but it’s now an official device.

 

The Porsche Design P’9981 smartphone from BlackBerry has striking looks with edges all over it. It has been constructed with various materials choices including a forged stainless steel frame, hand-wrapped leather back cover, sculpted QWERTY keyboard, and crystal clear touch display. The handset features a 1.2 GHz processor, 2.8 inch 24-bit capacitive touchscreen display, a 5MP camera HD video recording, 8GB of on-board memory, expandable up to 32GB with a micro SD card, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC and a 3.5 mm audio jack. The handset will run BlackBerry’s latest OS 7.
No word on the price or availability, but we’ll keep you posted if something pops up.

The most luxurious hotels in India

Luxury, the word conjures up images of extravagance and bliss in the finest of the lot. When used  in the context of hotels, you immediately visualize extraordinary décor, immaculate service, and an eclectic abundance of paraphernalia and facilities to make your stay more than impressive. From not so distance in the past, say 15-20 years ago to the India of now, the hospitality industry in India has come a long way. Today India boasts of some ultra-luxury hotels dotted across various destinations. Entry of the Hoteliers from around the world and path breaking hotels from indigenous groups like the Taj and the Oberoi have changed the perception of and have redefined the meaning of luxury hotels in India.

Taj Palace, Mumbai

Refurbished and revitalized, the iconic Taj Palace near the Gateway of India is arguably the grandest 5 Star hotel in India. This eponymous hotel is an architectural spectacle and one can only but marvel at the seamless blend of Moorish, Oriental and Florentine styles. The hotel is renowned for its amazing hospitality, immaculate services and comfy accommodation. Taj Mahal Palace and Hotel also happens to be the favored hotel of celebrities and state dignitaries with the list including Beatles, Bill Clinton, Roger Moore, Deep Purple and Barack Obama amongst others. There’s an interesting story about the construction of this hotel. It is believed that Jamsedji Tata decided to build the the Taj Palace after he was refused entry to one of the city’s grand hotels of the time, Watson’s Hotel, as it was restricted to ‘whites only’.

Rambagh Palace, Jaipur

After a stay in this hotel and exploring the city, you’ll be amazed to discover that history of this land of maharajahs is as intricate as the royal façade of the Rambagh Palace. The hotel traces its royal lineage to the erstwhile King of Jaipur and has now been converted into a luxury Taj Palace hotel. The hotel maintains a grace befitting its royal past. Rambagh Palace offers panache of a royal living with elegantly appointed rooms, veined corridors and regal gardens. In short the hotel is a walking gallery of royal grandeur and definitely one of the best in the world.

Leela Kempinski, Kovalam

Ensconced between two sweeping beaches just a short drive from Trivandrum, Leela Kempinski Kovalam is the largest beachside resort in Kerala. Offering a panoramic view of the famous Kovalam coastline, Leela Palace Kempinski is a veritable urban oasis nestled amidst 44 acres of lush landscape. You can find here the amenities which are standardized with the best in the world. What characterize this hotel besides the avant-garde amenities is the traditional Indian hospitalities and its in-house spa, Divya. With an array of therapeutic massages and wellness regimes which combines the best of traditional Indian therapies, Ayurveda and wellness treatments from around the world, this 5 Star hotel is definitely rates as one of the top for discerning travelers looking forward to a rejuvenating jaunt in luxury.

The Imperial Hotel, New Delhi

Serene and stately, no other word can describe this heritage hotel in the heart of the country’s capital New Delhi. The Imperial Hotel is not only one of the best luxury hotels in India but it is also recognized as one of the top hotels in world. Its history is as remarkable as its interiors. Planned by Lutyen himself, this hotel happens to have the honor of the first luxury hotel in India. The hotel possesses a dazzling historical past and a truly international allure. Blending seamlessly the colonial elegance and contemporary panache, the Imperial is definitely there at the top when it comes to luxury hotels in India.

The Oberoi, New Delhi

Overlooking Humayun’s Tomb and nestled amidst verdant landscape, Oberoi Hotel is a suave business hotel in Delhi. The Oberoi, New Delhi, a part of Oberoi hotels and resorts, is a mix of historic lavishness and modern amenities. The Oberoi was the first hotel to feature 24×7 personal butler services. Elegant décor, impeccable services and succulent cuisines make it one of the most charming and elegant hotels in India. Golf course in the vicinity of the hotel adds to the experience of a plush stay.

The Oberoi Amarvilas, Udaipur

In the ‘city of lakes’ as Udaipur is fondly referred to as is located this splendid work of architecture. The Oberoi Udaivilas is a resplendent retreat nestled on the banks of Lake Pichola in Udaipur. This palatial hotel is the place for indulgence for you if you think luxury can never be overdone. Silken parasols, lush gardens, sweeping panorama of the Aravali Hill Range and breathtaking interiors; Oberoi Amarvilas truly redefine luxury and excellence. With an array of avant-garde amenities, spotless hospitality, business center and a rejuvenating spa, this hotel is certainly up there at the top.

Ananda in Himalayas, Rishikesh

Ananda is located in the serene Himalayan foothills and is best known for its traditional Indian wellness regimes of Ayurveda, Yoga and Vedanta. A perfect place to reclaim the harmony of your body, mind and soul, Ananda in Himalayas is a tranquill retreat far from the din of bustling city life. With the highest values of services, deluxe accommodations and magnificent mountain views, Ananda is the place where you can pamper yourself in nonchalant languidness. A stay in this spa resort in Rishikesh adds to the flavor of your himalayan adventures.

Devi Garh, Udaipur

Devigarh Fort Palace has a minimalist modern design that completely defies its 18th-century palace exterior. It would not be wrong to say that the Devi Garh, Udaipur is a palace where the past meets the future. The materials used in making the astonishing 39 suites of the palace are local marbles and semi precious stones, is the talk of the interior-design world and has been used for fashion photo shoots. Devi Garh offers Ayurvedic treatments, Jacuzzi, gymnasium and much more that optimizes your well being.

Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

Set amidst 26 acres of lush green gardens Umaid Bhawan Palace is a seamless fusion of the Oriental and the Occidental architectural motifs. This resplendent palace is the part of the renowned Taj Resorts and Palaces. The one thing, which separates it from all other luxury hotels, is its majestic cupola. Influenced by the 

Renaissance architecture, it stands majestically at a height of 32 metres.

Wild Flower Hall, Shimla

Wild Flower Hall, Shimla is a fairytale resort. Offering a serene sanctuary in the mountains of Himalayas, Wildflower Hall offers a unique luxurious retreat. Part of the Oberoi hotels, the resort recreates the grand style of colonial era. The interiors of the resort are aesthetically designed. Sylvan furnishings, elegant tapestries and bona-fide works of art radiate an unparalleled élan of this luxurious retreat nestled amidst the scenic mountains. You are guaranteed to have a rejuvenating and calming jaunt in this luxury haven in Shimla.

A Look At Why India's Luxury Market Is Exploding

During the past year, the Indian luxury market has grown 20 percent, with the most growth among luxury products, according to a new report from global consultant management firm AT Kearney (via AFP).
The jewelry, electronics, fine dining, and cars sectors have jumped the most, growing between 30% and 40% in the past year.
Apparel, accessories, wine and spirits have continued a steady growth rate of around 25% to 30%.
Overall, the country's luxury market reached $5.75 billion in 2010, including goods and services, the report said.

A.T. Kearney

A breakdown of luxury market categories shows that growth has beat expectations.

The report said it expects growth in the luxury sector to continue as the space grows and the impression remains that India will be largely insulated from the turmoil in the global financial markets.
One major change in India's luxury market is that goods and services are no longer confined to the major cities of Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. Today, secondary cities like Chennai, Hyderabad and Pune collectively have more than 30 stores in luxury apparel, accessories, watches and personal care combined.
Consumers have also become more conscious of global trends, and less focused on logo-driven brands.
Digital media has also played an increasingly important role in high-end markets, the report said.
Challenges, of course, remain. There's still relatively little "Indianization" of luxury goods, though there have been some attempts, like a line of saris announced by Hermes earlier this year. And "domestic production of luxury goods needs to be attempted," the report said.
The report predicts another 20 percent growth in the luxury market next year.
Find the complete report here.

Read more: http://www.businessinsider.com/indian-luxury-market-is-exploding-2011-11#ixzz2MV9TSDVW

New Luxury Car 'Kizashi' in India by Maruti

The country's largest car maker Maruti Suzuki India today launched its luxury sedan Kizashi, with an introductory price of upto Rs 17.5 lakh.

The car, powered by a 2.4 litre petrol engine, will be imported from parent Suzuki's Japan facility.

"The Kizashi is a major step forward for Maruti Suzuki. With the launch of this luxurious sporty sedan, the company is able to offer an international car to top-end customers in India," Maruti Suzuki India Managing Director and CEO Shinzo Nakanishi told reporters here.

The car would be available in two variants, manual transmission priced at Rs 16.5 lakh and automatic transmission at Rs 17.5 lakh.

The company has already started bookings for the car, deliveries for which will begin in March this year.

Deccan Odyssey - India's old luxury tourist train.

Deccan Odyssey re started it's services after the luxury tourist train received a 360 deg upgrade by the Maharashtra Tourism Department Corporation (MTDC) to lure many tourists.

Today we have many luxury trains in India which pose a fair competition to the Deccan Odyssey.
But that would be an unfair comparison.  

Many would be unaware of the fact that before 2008, it was only Deccan Odyssey  of Maharashtra and Palace on Wheels that covered India in style.
When the services of Deccan Odyssey came to life again the State Tourism Minister explained and took opportunity to talk about Luxury Trains. He explained how this is not "relaunch" but "resuming" of services.

The train once showed lot of potential though never reached there. Hoping now it gains it's glory.
(Image courtesy: Catherine Stukhard).

Augmented Reality Online Shopping

Post Courtesy : Mashable

Written by Jennifer Van Grove

Modern women dream of the day when they can buy a super cute dress or practical pair of pants online that will fit perfectly on arrival.
That day is not yet here, but two new products from Zugara and FaceCake Marketing, presented at the DEMO Spring conference, combine augmented reality with online shopping, hoping to take womankind one giant visual leap forward. Regrettably, they also fall short of that mission.
Swivel, from FaceCake Marketing, taps into Microsoft Kinect's motion-sensing technology to offer a virtual at-home dressing room. Users grab an item of clothing or accessory, and get to see how it could look in real life. Shoppers can select a background to see how items translate to settings, say a ski slope.

In demonstrations, Swivel feels more like a game than a shopping tool. Clothes shopping, more than any most areas of commerce, is a matter of precision. Will the clothes fit in a flattering way? Will the real-world fabric or color, which may be a shade different from its on-screen counterpart, still compliment your skin? Is that pair of shades just the right shape for your face? Swivel could make online shopping more entertaining, but won't solve many of your real e-commerce challenges. At least for now.
Zugara's solution is the Webcam Social Shopper. It is equally appealing in principle, and disappointing in practice. It will work for anyone with a webcam-enabled PC. Visit a partner retailer's website, hit a button to try on apparel and see first-hand if a style is right for you. You can also snap a photo and share it on social networks to solicit feedback from friends.
Despite the delight of experiencing something avant garde and high-tech, I found trying on several dresses to be terribly disappointing. Not one came close to fitting the on-screen me. If augmented reality cannot help me envision the real thing, there's nothing real about the experience at all.

Neither Zugara or Swivel will be a panacea for marketers, brands or retailers, who are looking to lower the rate of returns. Swivel's virtual shopping experience creates a false sense of hope, while Zugara layers items in a way that could discourage sales, not improve them.
For now, women (and men) are still best served with a more practical product like Polyvore for creating new looks.
Image courtesy of Flickr, doublebug