We often celebrate innovation as the holy grail of success. New products, breakthrough ideas, bold strategies. But too often, we forget one critical factor: the market has to be ready.
Take Apple Newton. Launched in the early 90s, it was a touchscreen handheld device, complete with a stylus and note-taking features. Sound familiar? It was the spiritual ancestor of the smartphone. But it failed.
Why? The tech was clunky, the interface confusing, and more importantly, the world wasn’t ready for it.
Years later, Apple launched the iPhone. Similar vision. Better execution. But also, better timing. People were now used to touchscreens, mobile apps, and digital communication. The same idea became a revolution.
Another example? Google Glass. A wearable AR device that felt straight out of science fiction. The tech was impressive. The potential was massive. But the world responded with hesitation, and privacy concerns. Once again, too soon.
The lesson?
Innovation doesn’t live in isolation. Timing is the second axis of success. Being too early is just another form of being wrong.
So dream big. Build boldly. But never forget to ask: Is the world ready for what I’m building?
Because the best products don’t just push the future—they meet the moment.
Innovation Is Only Half the Battle
22 May 2025
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We often celebrate innovation as the holy grail of success. New products, breakthrough ideas, bold strategies. But too often, we forget one critical factor: the market has to be ready.
Take Apple Newton. Launched in the early 90s, it was a touchscreen handheld device, complete with a stylus and note-taking features. Sound familiar? It was the spiritual ancestor of the smartphone. But it failed.
Why? The tech was clunky, the interface confusing, and more importantly, the world wasn’t ready for it.
Years later, Apple launched the iPhone. Similar vision. Better execution. But also, better timing. People were now used to touchscreens, mobile apps, and digital communication. The same idea became a revolution.
Another example? Google Glass. A wearable AR device that felt straight out of science fiction. The tech was impressive. The potential was massive. But the world responded with hesitation, and privacy concerns. Once again, too soon.
The lesson?
Innovation doesn’t live in isolation. Timing is the second axis of success. Being too early is just another form of being wrong.
So dream big. Build boldly. But never forget to ask: Is the world ready for what I’m building?
Because the best products don’t just push the future—they meet the moment.