Final answer:
The pricing strategy utilized by Apple in India, via its partnerships with Airtel and Vodafone, demonstrates market segmentation aimed at catering to consumer preferences for flexibility and non-commitment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The distribution and pricing strategy used by Apple in India, where consumers prefer not to be locked into long-term contracts and iPhones are sold exclusively through Airtel and Vodafone stores, is an example of market segmentation. This strategic approach targets a specific section of the market that favors flexibility over commitment. Apple's partnership with Airtel and Vodafone enables them to reach customers who are looking for this specific type of service arrangement.
This is in line with the companies' efforts to innovate and provide a variety of pricing plans to attract and please customers, as the market nowadays no longer represents a monopoly with standardized products and services. It is a clear shift from the past, where one could only expect phones in black and with fewer choices. The competitive nature of the telecommunications market now fosters lower prices, a greater variety of offerings, and a high tide of innovation, which is all part of the broader context of international trade where companies like Apple and Samsung cooperate and compete at the same time.