The Myth of Competition: Why Multiple Products with the Same Idea Can Thrive in the Market
In the competitive world of products, software applications, and mobile apps, one common hurdle entrepreneurs and creators face is the belief that if an idea already exists in the market, there’s no point in pursuing it. But here’s where the magic happens:
just because a product is already out there, doesn’t mean the market is saturated or that your version won’t succeed.
It’s not about being first it’s about offering your version in a way that resonates with more people, just like in the world of cinema, where the same story can succeed in different languages or regions.
Same Story, New Audience: The Movie Analogy
Let’s take the world of movies as a perfect example. Consider “A Star Is Born”, a story that has been retold multiple times. The original movie came out in 1937, and it was successfully remade in 1954, 1973, again India told the same story in the form of Aashiqui 2 and most recently in 2018. Each version told the same story of love, stardom, and tragedy, but tailored to its contemporary audience, with changes in music, culture, and societal norms. What remained the same was the emotional core, but each version succeeded because it connected with audiences in its own era, and location.
Just like these movies, your product or app doesn’t have to be the first of its kind to succeed. It’s about how you package it for your target audience, how well you understand their needs, and how effectively you can tailor your solution to them.
Multiple Products, Same Idea: Why It’s Not a Problem
In the world of software and mobile apps, competition is fierce, and many shy away from creating something new if they see similar products already existing. But, as we’ve seen from movies, it’s not just the idea that counts it’s how you present it, localize it, and market it. The same idea can thrive in different markets when adapted for that specific audience.
Let’s say you have an idea for a streaming platform. Sure, there are giants like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video that dominate globally, but that doesn’t mean your streaming service can’t find success. Your version could focus on niche content, serve a specific region, or offer something unique like localized features or a better user experience for certain types of users.
In the same way that “A Star Is Born” was remade multiple times, each version targeting a new generation, your product can be adapted and refined to fit the preferences of your target market.
Localization: The Secret to Expanding the Same Idea
Just as filmmakers tailor the same story to suit different languages, dialects, and cultures, product creators can adapt their applications or software for different markets. When Netflix expanded globally, they weren’t the first. There were already platforms like Hulu and Amazon Prime Video. However, Netflix succeeded by offering better localization, a user-friendly interface, and personalized recommendations tailored to individual users. They didn’t reinvent the wheel; they simply made it spin better for more people.
A localized product that speaks directly to its audience’s language and culture is bound to resonate more. Your app or software may not be the first, but by customizing it to fit the specific needs of your target audience, you stand a far better chance of capturing their attention.
Take the example of Disney+, which wasn’t the first streaming service but exploded onto the scene globally because it focused on offering exclusive content and capitalized on the power of franchises like Marvel and Star Wars. It provided users with content that they already loved but packaged it in a way that made it feel more personal and accessible.
The Real Advantage: Connection Over Invention
In both the world of movies and the market for products or apps, success isn’t solely about invention it’s about connection. Your product might have the same core idea as an existing one, but if you find a way to connect with a new audience through localization, personalization, or a unique presentation, you can still achieve success.
The idea of “this product already exists” should not stop you from pursuing your vision. Just like “Aashiqui” and “Aashiqui 2”, a similar product can perform well in different markets because it connects with the audience in their language and cultural context. Both movies had the same story but resonated differently because the presentation was adapted to the preferences of different audiences.
Similarly, your product may not be groundbreaking in its idea, but it can still capture the market if it resonates deeply with your audience through ease of use, better design, or a more relatable user experience.
Conclusion: There’s Always Room for More
Whether you’re developing a mobile app, a software solution, or launching a product, remember that competition should never discourage you. The world of movies proves that the same story can succeed in different markets when tailored properly. Likewise, the same product idea can flourish when presented with a better user experience, localized for specific audiences, or marketed in a way that reaches those who have yet to connect with existing products.
In short, success doesn’t always come from being the first; it comes from being the most relatable, the most accessible, and the best adapted to your audience’s needs. So, don’t let the fear of competition hold you back. Just as filmmakers keep remaking successful movies for new audiences, your product or app can find success by expanding its reach and tapping into new markets, cultures, and languages.