Product differentiation between competitors has long been a strategy of most businesses. Setting itself apart through product functionality, price, or simply just the ‘look and feel’ is a trend that usually proves effective. Strategy differs when companies reach a certain size. Some companies are big enough to diversify their own products so as to ‘hedge their bets’, so to speak.

Take for example Microsoft (MSFT). This company seems to be waiting to see which operating system consumers will grab hold of by rolling out tablet devices with either the Windows 8 or Windows RT.

Alternatively, some companies show such confidence in their products as to bet the farm on a solid performer. This seems to be the case with Intel (INTC), which is looking squarely at its new Atom processor used in several cross-market devices.

The key to this processor is its universality. It can be used in both desktop devices and tablets without sacrificing performance. As many traditional PC users are slow in migrating from desktop to tablet, it would seem this bet could pay off.

Whenever anyone mentions the word “tablet” in conversation, that conversation will probably include praise for Apple’s (AAPL) iPad. Since its inception, the domination of the tablet market has been largely based on the hitherto unmatched combination of cost-effectiveness and high functionality.

It is mindboggling how the iPad can continue almost unrivaled, save a few attempts at imitation rather than improvement. To continue reading, click here.