Apple should allow configuring (CTO) iPhones (and iPads)!!!

Some people want 3.5" back.
Some want Apple to retain the 4" screen.
Some want bigger (4.5-4.7").

How about releasing 2/3 models at the same time? It doesn't hurt Apple if they do so right? Look at macbooks, the Air has 11" and 13", and the pro has 13 and 15" (previously also 17"). Give consumers choices. For example, extend the colour range. Expand the storage capacity to 128GB. Besides the standard models, let consumers order the phone online and configure (like how we do with our Macs) to our heart's content: 3.5", 4" or 4.7", 1GB or 2GB RAM, A6 or A7, the standard 1500 mAh, 2300 mAh or 3000 mAh battery (only available with the 4.7" model), along with different colours and storage capacities. Bring the engraving service (that you do with iPods) to the iPhone. The base models (with A6, 1GB RAM) are designed to be usable enough for most of us; and those who do lots of gaming, iMovie and open a lot of safari pages simultaneously for example, will need a stronger spec.

We want each iPhone to be unique, not the same boring, massively produced, standardised phones. We want choices.

 

I know that Apple doesn't usually listen to its customers, because those who want Apple to change for the better, or Apple enthusiastics, like me, account for a small percentage of its customer base, like 5%. The rest, like my parents, they couldn't care less if the iPhone they are using is packed with 1GB of RAM or not, A6 or A7... they just want a phone that works.

Now, the reason why Samsung sells a lot more smartphone then Apple (and recently, the profit they've gained from the smartphone industry exceeds that of Apple) is due to the fact that they give consumers a massive set of choices. You look at Samsung page now and count how many models they have. Those phones more or less look the same, do the same job, but each person will find his or her own need. Some like the Note 2 because of the sheer screen size and the stylus, some like the smaller S4, some with a lower budget will aim for a mini or grand, some with not so much cash will buy a Galaxy Y. I mean, Samsung does very well in the sense that they cater for a very large range of people. Everyone will find something that suits their need.

Apple can do the same. They will still sell the standardised models in Apple Store. But along with that, allow consumers to configure their phones if needed. That way, Apple will gain a much larger customer base.

 

While I know my idea is impractical now, but in 2-3 years down the road, who knows? Apple knows best how to generate the most profit and will do whatever they feel is needed, but I'm just bringing this point in a consumer's perspective. But it's kinda true that fragmentation will be a huge headache.