iPhones: Fifteen pieces of flair

Apple launched its iPhone only 74 days ago. But it has already sold more than 1m. So why did it risk alienating its hard-core fans by cutting the price by $200 last week? The move smacks of an attempt to «beat the number.» Apple has a long history of smashing the guidance it gives investors. It has exceeded earnings expectations every quarter since December 2002, according to First Call. Of course, having hit products such as the iPod and iPhone helps. But one might suspect the group is trying ...