Kappawn, a cell phone manufacturer, observes that its customers have started purchasing only touchscreen cell phones. It hence stops manufacturing traditional cell phones and switches to the manufacture of touchscreen cell phones. In the context of innovation streams, which of the following concepts does this scenario best illustrate?
A) Technological singularity
B) Technological lockout
C) Technological substitution
D) Technological determinism

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This scenario best illustrates technological substitution, which occurs when a new technology completely replaces an older technology. In this case, the traditional cell phones are being replaced by touchscreen cell phones. Technological lockout is when a dominant design emerges and it becomes difficult for other designs to compete. Technological singularity refers to a hypothetical future point in time when technological growth becomes uncontrollable and irreversible. Technological determinism is the theory that technology shapes and controls social and cultural aspects of society.

Kappawn, a Cell Phone Manufacturer, Observes That Its Customers Have