I think the software was so good because Steve and Scott put a human touch to it. The current leadership is great and all but they’re just too normal. Many people called Forstall and Jobs pricks because they just didn’t get them.
They were pricks because they were so passionate about what they do. Just listening to them talking about their work can tell a lot. Now when I hear Jony or Tim talking about things, they just repeat the same old thing again and again. I never learn anything new from them. Thank god for Craig because he seems like the only one who gives a damn.
The more I know about the crisis that happened in 2013 the more I’m convinced that Apple is now run by agenda and not by novel ideas. I freaking loved Forstall talking about the creation of the iPhone last year.
There is no friction anymore which Jobs loved because he understood that it brought out the best in each other. Cook thinks the opposite and wanted a “harmonious working environment”, thinking that would bring the team together closer assuming it would also bring out the beat in them. Well, we all know how that’s turning out. Jobs’ approach was the right one; you need friction in the company because it brings out the best results. He compared it to The Beatles, saying how they didn’t get along a lot of the time but ultimately as a group each members qualities brought out the best music.
I loved that Forstall interview too. I was really interested in what he had to say and he delivered. I wish that the interviewer asked him about his thoughts on iOS 7 and flat design though and if he still uses an iPhone but oh well. He kept me engaged, was charismatic, wasn’t boring, and had interesting stories that were told with humour. You could sense that he’s still very passionate and was proud of the work he’s done. I like him because he reminds me of Jobs, he’s the closest thing we have to him and shares a lot of his qualities. His interview was more interesting and engaging than any of the employees currently at Apple.
That’s the kind of guy I want as their CEO.
Here’s a quote from his interview when he was questioned about skeumorphism: "When I look at design - when I look at good design - it's approachable, friendly, you can use it without a manual. It's fun.“
Now it’s the complete opposite. The fun has been ripped out of it because Ive dislikes “whimsy”. He prefers one of those generic modern houses with white walls and little furniture which lacks any warmth or character. Jobs preferred a cottage house with a cosy fireplace, wooden furnishings, stone floors and interesting ornaments.
Some people prefer the same house as Ive but I find it to be cold, sterile, and uninviting while lacking any character. I prefer Steve’s house which I find to be more inviting, warm, with a lot of character and more interesting things to look at.
