Apple plans to market iPods via new channels

Apple has chalked out a new marketing strategy to expand its footprint in the domestic market by establishing its presence in tier-II and tier-III cities. In addition to the present sets of resellers, the company now plans to sell iPods at book stalls, music stores and online portals.

"The new initiative of the company will be implemented in II and III tier cities across the country apart from the 10 cities, including four metros, at present. The main aim of introducing the iPod at lower levels is to improve the Indian customers' shopping experience." Yeo Eng Yiong, product marketing manager (portables), Asia Pacific, Apple, said.

With nearly 3,000 products, the company is also planning to come up with a Digital Lifestyle store. While refusing to divulge more details on the plans, Yiong said that the company is also looking for more channel partners to market its products in India. The company has introduced a new iPod with features of brighter and 2.5 inch colour display with a 30 giga byte model priced at Rs 16,700. An 80 gb model, which holds up to 20,000 songs, costs Rs 23,600 and nano iPod models of 4 gb in silver, pink, green and blue are available for Rs 13,200. The new 8 gb model in black would be available for Rs 16,400.

Commenting on price disparity between India and the US, Yiong said, "The disparity in the prices of iPod is due to the 5 per cent custom duty levied by the India."

He also advised that a person should purchase an iPod from an authorised reseller. This would enable the company to replace or repair it. He refuted the allegation that the company had failed to provide repair of the iPod by the reseller.