by Keith Richardson
Change of plans for this column from what we promised in October. We can examine the computerization of health care records, book publishing, and financial payments another time. These trends will continue to evolve whether or not we seniors encourage or want them.
Instead, let’s focus on Apple Inc., which last month saw its founder, Steve Jobs, succumb in his long battle with pancreatic cancer. Jobs creative leadership significantly altered modern “computer technology” and the way we think about and use it. Much has been reported about the man and his influence. Bloomberg Business Week magazine issued a special 65 page edition entirely devoted to Jobs, his genius, triumphs, and, yes, his peccadilloes. Many other mags and papers celebrated his momentous contributions with cover stories. TV and Internet were flooded with tributes. We acknowledged our own debt to Jobs and Apple on our MacSeniors website.
Ironically, Jobs passed away only a day after Apple’s new CEO Tim Cook presented the latest iteration of the iPhone, one of Jobs’ most famous and significant products–to a surprising degree of dissatisfaction from many (though certainly not most) observers. When the iPhone 4S went on sale a little over a week later, however, there were reports that sales were exceeding expectations as some consumers bought it “out of respect for Jobs.” More likely, they just know a good thing when they see it.
The remainder of October was tumultuous for Apple. The unveiling of iOS 5, the new operating system for iPhones, iPads, and iPods, along with the unveiling of iCloud, Apple’s free replacement for its MobileMe online storage and device synchronization, saw the company’s new servers temporarily overloaded. Two days later, as sales of the iPhone went better than expected, many distribution outlets sold out their allotments in minutes and forced eager consumers to put their names on reservation lists. Only a few days later, Apple released its fiscal fourth quarter results–below the expectations of some market analysts–triggering a plunge in its stock value. (At press time, we could only guess what would happen in late October, but we bet, based on informed market commentary–see CNNMoney: “Why Apple’s big miss doesn’t matter”– that the stock rebounded.)
The facts are that Jobs left the company in extremely good shape, financially, operationally, and creatively. It has been reported that he spent the last several months of his life labouring on a four-year plan to ensure the company continues to prosper without him. Tim Cook, Apple’s new CEO, has a sterling reputation for leadership and business smarts. Apple is the clear forerunner in tablets (iPad), a powerful competitor in smart phones (expect rave reviews for the 4S, which we have just upgraded to), and computers (iMac and laptop sales continue to be through the roof). Lion, OS 10.7, has performed up to expectations.
Even with so many changes to adjust to in such a brief time span, Apple users continue to sing the praises of the company that Jobs built and the products it turns out. There’s no reason to expect them to do anything less than shine.
On a personal note, we want to plug Wireless Wave in Lougheed Mall for being able to supply a new iPhone 4S even at the end of launch day. Thanks, Greg! (The Rogers store was a bust.) WW’s service was terrific; we’re happy with our new contract with Fido! Having dealt happily with WW in the past, we shouldn’t have been surprised. Give them some thought if you’re looking for a new smartphone, no matter what the brand.