With the new retina’s high resolution display, the masterful neo-classic design along with relentless innovation in software features and intuitive user interface, Apple iPhone 4, again undeniably  has raised the new bar for high-end smartphones.

Similar to the previous versions in their time, Apple maintains a  comfortable gap when comparing its products  to other smartphone manufacturers as far as value and popularity. Nevertheless, today competitive landscape is very different from 3 years ago when the iPhone was born. This time, Apple will be under scrutiny to maintain its pace, which has been set  very high with the incredible success of the iPad and the new iPhone 4. However, the predictable yearly refresh cycle that Apple adheres might be the target of Android army and other major smartphone platforms that are not tied to any preset cycle. Later this year, many announcements are prepared to go head-to-head with Apple offerings:

HTC Vision, a another superphone from Taiwanese manufacturer, is rumored to get the dual core 800 GHz and Android 3.0 OS along with super AMOLED 4.3” display…Microsoft Windows Phone 7 platform is getting ready to launch its biggest assault with major manufacturers and multiple carrier partners, the new devices will include: KIN studio-like feature, Social Networking and even an advertising platform among other things,.. Blackberry has seen its market-share eroded by the iPhone and Android devices, RIM has announced  something unprecedented  will be on the way. Nokia new Linux-based Meego powered spartphones will try to be competitive again…

Thinking Apple is sleeping on laurels is naïve, Even without further major innovation, Apple still has lots of room for minor improvements that can take place outside of it refresh cycle . The company can easily make its iDevices available to more than one wireless carrier,  adding minor changes such the camera on the iPad and iPod Touch, adding 3G support for Facetime, etc…  

The bar has been set very high last week by Apple, it will be even be pushed further within the next few months.  Smartphone vendors understand the magic combo for success is not only based on hardware. Software, App, and the whole ecosystem surrounded need to be raised as well and this is not an easy task to overcome.