Apple’s release of the iPhone on June 29, 2007 marked the day that would initiate a technological global phenomenon that would continue to accelerate with each new release over the course of the following decade.

Prior to the iPhone, companies such as LG, Blackberry and Motorola were already instrumental in bringing the smartphone to the world . However, this technology was not yet fully utilized. The iPhone was the first device to combine all the features of a regular phone. Internet, music, games, applications and work tools were all included plus more.

In the decade since the release of the first iPhone, Apple has successfully monopolized the market and eliminated the majority of its competition. Apple earns approximately 60-70 percent of worldwide sales, and as of last year, has sold over 1 billion units. In doing so, the number of choices in the market has been significantly limited to the consumer. In fact, other phone companies other than Apple produce phones with just as much capability as iPhones, if not better. “You pay more for an iPhone, but get the same camera as an Android”, state’s sophomore Eric Mangum. “Just stick with Android.”

There is no doubt that Apple undeniably makes good quality products. However, a vast number of other companies make products just as great, and because of this consumers shouldn’t settle for just one product. Instead, consumers should exercise their freedom to choose, and the choices at their disposal should number greater than one.