We’re proud to share that Michael, our CEO and co-founder of Go Vertical ICM, was recently featured in Investopedia’s article “Retail Shock: The Top Consumer Products That Lose Value Rapidly.” As a recognized voice in product innovation and commercialization, Michael offered expert insight into one of the most pressing realities for today’s inventors and startups: rapid depreciation in consumer products—especially electronics.
This feature reinforces Go Vertical ICM’s commitment to helping inventors build smarter—not just faster—products with value, longevity, and sustainability in mind.
What Causes Rapid Depreciation in Electronics?
In the article, Michael Khoury explained that smartphones and consumer electronics lose value faster than almost any other product category, often dropping by 30% to 50% in just the first year.
“Smartphones and tablets lose value rapidly due to short product lifecycles and continuous updates,” he noted.
This depreciation is largely driven by:
• Frequent hardware upgrades (new processors, better cameras)
• Software incompatibilities with older models
• Changing consumer expectations and trends
• Aggressive product launches by tech giants
And it’s not just phones. Laptops, tablets, and even smartwatches follow a similar trend.
What This Means for Inventors
If you’re developing an electronic product—especially a consumer-facing one—you’re not just competing with existing products. You’re competing with the next version of those products. That’s why building something “cool” isn’t enough.
To stay competitive, inventors must:
• Design for lasting value
• Build in update-friendly architecture
• Differentiate through niche functionality or use-case-specific features
• Plan for a sustainable product lifecycle
At Go Vertical ICM, our Product Development Roadmap is specifically designed to help inventors think through these elements from day one.
Go Vertical ICM’s Approach to Smarter Product Innovation
At Go Vertical ICM, we understand the pace of innovation—and how easy it is for even great products to get buried in the noise.
That’s why our process includes:
- Early-stage market validation
- Informed technology and material selection
- Scalable design-for-manufacturing practices
- Integrated IP strategy to protect innovation
- Strategic planning for sustainable differentiation
Whether you’re building a wearable medical device or a consumer electronics product, we guide you toward solutions that last longer and perform better, so your invention can stand the test of time—and competition.
Sustainability: A Business Imperative
Michael also emphasized the need for product longevity and sustainable development in fast-depreciating industries.
“We’re seeing a shift in the inventor mindset,” he says. “Inventors are starting to prioritize longer product life cycles, using more sustainable materials and exploring modular design.”
This isn’t just ethical—it’s strategic. Consumers are increasingly seeking eco-conscious products that offer long-term value. And with regulations tightening globally, sustainability is no longer optional.
Learn more about how we support Regulatory Compliance & Sustainable Design.
Building the Next Big Thing? Let’s Make It Last.
We’re honored that Michael’s insight was featured in Investopedia—but more importantly, we’re proud of what it represents: that Go Vertical ICM is a leader in helping inventors bring smarter, more sustainable, and more valuable products to market.
Whether you’re creating the next big tech product or a purpose-driven solution in healthcare or wellness, we’re here to help you build it right.
Contact us today for a discovery call: govertical.co/contact
Or get started with our Product Development Roadmap to map out your journey from idea to launch.
Want full support from start to finish? Check out our Creation Accelerator Program.