How to Go Beyond the MVP:

Bringing a product to market is no small feat. Companies pour time and resources into developing a Minimum Viable Product (MVP)—that first iteration designed to gather feedback, validate core features, and lay the foundation for future development. But true success isn’t just about launching a single product. It’s about creating an ecosystem.

At NuCurrent, we work with companies that are thinking beyond their first device. They’re building platforms—scalable, interoperable systems that require seamless charging, data transfer, and software updates across multiple products. So, what does it take to grow from an MVP to a full ecosystem?

The Three-Generation Rule

Many of the most successful products evolve over multiple iterations. Take Apple and Tesla as prime examples:

• Version 1: Good enough for early adopters—establishes proof of concept but may have limitations.
• Version 2: Introduces meaningful improvements, optimizing performance and refining the user experience.
• Version 3: Nails it. By this stage, companies have gathered enough insights to deliver a polished, scalable solution.

The challenge is ensuring that each version builds upon a strong foundation. This is where architecture decisions—especially around power and data transfer—become critical.

Charging: The Backbone of a Product Ecosystem

For any electronic device, power is non-negotiable. Whether it’s a smartphone, smartwatch, or electric vehicle, every product in an ecosystem must charge efficiently and reliably. Companies that control their charging infrastructure gain a massive competitive edge—just look at Apple and Tesla.

Apple’s history of proprietary charging standards (from multi-pin connectors to Lightning to Qi2) highlights how charging decisions shape ecosystems. They’ve evolved from a closed, proprietary model to actively pushing an open standard—Qi2. Regardless of strategy, their goal remains the same: ensuring an optimized, tightly integrated user experience.

Tesla took a similar approach with its Supercharger network. When they introduced their first vehicles, they built an infrastructure that could support future models, from Roadster to Model Y to Cybertruck. And by opening their charging network to other EV brands, they reinforced their dominance while maintaining control of the core technology.

Building for Scalability

One of the biggest mistakes companies make is optimizing their MVP so tightly that it limits future growth. If the technology behind the first product isn’t designed to scale—whether in size, efficiency, or interoperability—it can become a dead end.

The key is investing in powerful, flexible architectures from the start. Wireless power and data solutions that enable seamless firmware updates, efficient charging across devices, and long-term adaptability create a foundation for an entire portfolio—not just a single product.

At NuCurrent, we help companies build that foundation. Whether it’s wearables, medical devices, or smart glasses, our wireless power solutions aren’t just solving today’s challenges—they’re enabling the ecosystems of the future.

Want to explore how scalable power and data platforms can take your product portfolio to the next level? Let’s talk.

“The most successful ecosystems aren’t just built on great products- they’re built on great infrastructure. Don’t let someone else define your platform’s foundation.”

– Jacob Babcock, CEO NuCurrent

Control the Invisible. Unlock the Future.

Check out our Proof Points episode on this topic: