Top 5 Tech Mistakes in History

These days, it’s hard to imagine companies ever making miscalculated decisions, especially with all the available technology we have on hand. But history is rife with mistakes that big companies would rather forget. 

So, if you’re a business that’s always on odds about taking risks and investing in technology, then here are few incidents that will hopefully remind you to think outside the box. 

1. Kodak Rejected the Digital Camera 

Nowadays, it’s not uncommon for many photographers to prefer the digital camera. After all, film is expensive and can sometimes be temperamental; making the end product a bit harder to predict. But back then, Kodak was the king of cameras and everyone knew their brand. However, when it came to preparing for the future, the company was two steps behind. 

When an engineer approached them for an idea of creating a ‘filmless camera,’ management laughed at the thought. Fast-forward to a few years later, Kodak filed for bankruptcy in 2012 while digital cameras still reign supreme.

2. Blockbuster Could’ve Been Netflix 

Much like how libraries cater to the needs of bookworms, Blockbuster was heaven for cinephiles and movie lovers. But while they were running a well-oiled machine, their vision for the company was too shortsighted. So much so that, in 2000 they refused to buy Netflix for $50 million. Today, Blockbuster has closed down while Netflix remains strong with a $12 billion revenue which just keeps on growing. 

3.  Yahoo! could’ve been Google 

Believe it or not, there used to be a time when Yahoo! was bigger than Google. And while the company had plans of acquiring the tech company, deals were never finalized and the acquisition never pushed through. Today, Google is widely considered as the reigning top search provider and with an outstanding net worth of over $700 billion, who can dispute them?

4. Losing Out on the iPod  

Before the iPod became an iconic part of tech history, the idea of owning a curated music device seemed absurd. But its creator, Tony Fadell believed so much in his product that he pitched his idea to RealNetworks. However, the software company couldn’t see its potential and turned it down. Luckily enough, Fadell decided to pitch his idea to Apple. Today, the iPod is legendary both for its revolutionary design and tech aspect, and is still widely considered one of the best inventions of its time. 

5. Western Union Rejecting the Telephone 

It’s very hard to imagine how society would look like today without the invention of the telephone. And if not for Alexander Graham Bell and his work, it would’ve taken a longer time before we got to enjoy the benefits of the modern cellphone. Unfortunately for Western Union, America’s former leading communications company, they made the huge mistake of turning down Bell’s patent which would’ve launched their company to unprecedented heights. 

Success can’t happen without taking risks. And in today’s day and age, it’s essential for every entrepreneur to have a better understanding of the future. Make sure your business is ready to take the next step and help shape the future of enterprise by investing in technology, today.