ZDNet ran an interesting post about Apple’s need to innovate. In short, the company’s current position, while by no means guaranteed in the long term, is certainly looking good–especially compared to companies like Google, HP, and RIM.

But let’s not forget a key source of Apple’s innovation: it’s ecosystem. Much innovation at Apple (or, more precisely, through Apple) is external. Developers are taking iOS and apps in all sorts of interesting directions. While not completely open like Android, the number and variety of apps from its partners and ecosystem certainly counts as innovation.

In the Age of the Platform, innovation need not take place within your organization’s walls.