Oct 05
Steve Jobs
Steve Jobs sadly passed away today at 56 from complications of pancreatic cancer. He’d been battling the illness for a number of years. No doubt many suspected he was unwell, given his medical history and recent announcement to step down as CEO, but it’s naturally sent shockwaves through the tech industry and media alike.
Jobs was a fascinating personality to me, as I’m sure he was to many others. A visionary in multiple industries - from the first affordable home computer in the early days, to animated films, music and post-PC devices, he wasn’t afraid to bin convention. To seek perfection in a product. To discard all the unnecessary design, features and complexity, until you’re left with the essence of an idea that would make someone use a product - or watch an computer animated film - for the first time think, ”Well… why would it be any other way?”.
It wasn’t all roses. Well known to be a tyrant to work for, Steve threw tantrums when decisions went against him and took the ideas of others, which he then passed off as his own. He was ruthless not only to his competitors, but on occasion with those he worked most closely with.
Through Apple and Pixar, Steve contributed more than technology; He has masterfully shaped the way we communicate and the way we consume the world. That’s why we’re witnessing the outpouring of grief for a Businessman, the likes of which are typically reserved for Kings, Queens, Presidents and Popes.
An intensely private man who only a handful of people knew intimately, the world’s connection with him is through devices we carry in our pockets, the music piping through our iconic matte-white earphones and the films that reduce grown men (well, me..) to tears.
‘‘And there may be no greater tribute to Steve’s success than the fact that much of the world learned of his passing on a device he invented.’’
Obama, as elegant as ever.
Farewell Steve. You accomplished what you really wanted; You put a ding in the universe (in more ways than one).
