1. Which music streaming service do you use, if any? Why are you using this particular service and not others? Are you a paid subscriber? Why or why not?

2. This Mini Case argues that Beats Electronics’ core competency lies in its marketing savvy and Dr. Dre’s coolness. Do you agree with this assessment? Why or why not?

3. This Mini Case provides three explanations for why Apple purchased Beats Electronics. Briefly summarize each of them. Which do you believe is most accurate, and why?

4. Suppose you believe Apple bought Beats Electronics to bring Jimmy Iovine and Dr. Dre into Apple. What are the potential downsides of this multibillion-dollar “acquihire” (an acquisition to hire key personnel)?

5. If Beats Electronics’ core competencies are indeed intangibles, such as coolness and marketing savvy, do you think these competencies will remain valuable under Apple’s ownership? Why or why not?