Galapagos phenomenon; Galapagos syndrome
Refers to the tendency of Japanese products or services to evolve in isolation for the domestic market, becoming highly specialized but incompatible with global standards and vulnerable to foreign competition. The term draws an analogy with the unique endemic species of the Galapagos Islands.
See also: ガラパゴス化
Japanese mobile phones are often cited as a classic example of the Galapagos phenomenon.
To break free from the Galapagos syndrome, product development that considers overseas markets is necessary.