bleeding edge

View more Technology videos

A product or service that is so new it has not been widely adopted by consumers and therefore carries a higher degree of uncertainty as to how it will fit in with existing goods and services.

Something described as bleeding edge would be considered more advanced than something considered "cutting edge". The higher degree in risk associated with the product or service means that the consumer might be "cut" by using such a new good if it fails to gain market acceptance. The term is often used to refer to new technology.

Investopedia Says:

For example, a new cell phone could be considered bleeding edge if it is the first of its kind. Consumers used to older cell phones will be uncertain as to how to use it, how it will be supported and what extra costs might be associated with using it.

Businesses that adopt bleeding edge technology that later becomes widely adopted may see an advantage from being a first-mover; however, if the bleeding edge technology is not widely-adopted the business will have spent significant resources on something that won't work. This presents businesses with a difficult choice: invest in bleeding edge technology that might ultimately fail, or don't invest and risk having obsolete technology if the bleeding edge technology becomes the industry standard.

Related Links:
Is that crazy product going to be the next big thing? Learn how to evaluate these companies here. Sorting Out Cult Stocks
Bubbles are deceptive and unpredictable, but by studying their history we can prepare to our best ability. 5 Steps Of A Bubble
Learn how to deal with the puzzling yet undeniable power of the masses in the market. The Madness Of Crowds
These 10 entrepreneurs' names will live on long into the future - perhaps even after their enterprises are gone. The 10 Greatest Entrepreneurs
This volatile sector can provide huges gains, but there's also lots of downside. The Ups And Downs Of Biotechnology
Is that crazy product going to be the next big thing? Learn how to evaluate these companies here. Sorting Out Cult Stocks

(DOD, NATO) That edge of a map or chart on which cartographic detail is extended to the edge of the sheet.