New Product Success: 10 Million Sold in 3 Days

The headline says it all: Apple's new iPhone 6 and 6+ are big, big hits. Although analysts expected high demand, an opening weekend figure of 10 million indicates that Apple has once again correctly identified the sweet spot of consumer interest. This time, the larger screens are a major attraction for iPhone fans--not to mention the status of being among the earliest adopters of this new product.

Although Android is the big market share winner worldwide, Apple's iOS dominates the US market, with a nearly 42% share. New iPhones have caused a frenzy in the past, but this latest product launch eclipses Apple's previous records.

Apple has traditionally shown initiative and power in product launches. Its ability to orchestrate and implement all the details of product development, production, and introduction--including the all-important intro marketing campaign--is a major strength. That doesn't stop rivals from sniping, of course, as Samsung did one day after Apple's highly publicized launch of the iPhones and Apple Watch.

With customers deciding between tablets and phones--and sometimes buying both--the industry is seeing even more innovation and crowding than ever. This final quarter of 2014 will feature a number of competitive smartphone launches, including:

• Samsung Galaxy Note 4 and Samsung Z
• Sony Xperia Z3
• Nexus 6
• Moto X + 1