Nokia, the then-global leader in mobile phones, has shared a previously unreleased memo from 2007 that provides insight into its reaction to Apple’s launch of the original iPhone. The memo highlights Nokia’s competitive analysis of the iPhone, praising its user-focused design and touchscreen interface, but also identifying potential weaknesses such as the lack of physical keyboard and high price point.
However, despite acknowledging these flaws, Nokia predicted that they would limit the iPhone’s appeal. Instead, the company focused on improving software design and ecosystem integration – areas where it ultimately fell short. The memo identifies the Nokia 800 as a potential solution combined with 3G technology, but this was later developed into the incomplete Nokia 5800 XM.
In hindsight, the memo reveals Nokia’s underestimation of the iPhone’s impact on the industry. It serves as a valuable lesson for companies on adapting to innovation and emerging technologies. The memo provides a unique perspective on a critical moment in tech history, offering insights into what could have been done differently to respond to Apple’s challenge.
Nokia ultimately failed to effectively counter Apple’s innovative approach, but this 2007 memo offers an interesting look at how the company perceived the iPhone’s potential and its shortcomings.
Source: https://nokiamob.net/2025/01/20/nokias-2007-memo-on-the-iphone