Fifty Years of Apple, Twenty Years for Me
A couple of weeks ago, Tim Cook shared a letter on Apple’s website reflecting on the company’s upcoming 50th anniversary, noting that they would be recognising and celebrating it. Since then, a number of activities and events have been taking place in various locations around the world.
In the letter, Cook reflects on the breadth of Apple products that have made a mark on the world and invokes the “Think Different” poem as a way of expressing Apple’s gratitude for its customers.
There was a line in Cook’s letter that really resonated with me:
“The most meaningful chapters are written by all of you — the people who use our technology to work, learn, dream, and discover. You’ve made breakthroughs and launched businesses.”
It’s getting close to 20 years since I decided that what I wanted most in my life was to be a technology podcaster, and that the thing I wanted to talk about more than anything was Apple. Through many attempts, and many homes, I eventually reached the point where this could be the way I make a living.
I launched my business on a Mac. For many years, I ran it using my iPad Pro, and all the while I’ve used my iPhone for everything in between. But for me, it’s not just about using these products — my business has also depended on Apple making them. What I create is about them.
My interest in technology has always been broad, but what I’ve always cared about most is whatever Apple is making. It’s been that way since I was 18 years old and got my first Apple product — the iPod mini — and it remains that way to this day.
Apple and I do not always see eye to eye, and there are times when the thing I’m most enthusiastic about is trying to take them down a peg. But no matter how passionate I may get, at the core of it I always believe in what this company is capable of.
I’m really looking forward to seeing how Apple and the wider community celebrate this 50th anniversary. I’m excited for the inevitable articles, podcasts, and video essays that will be published — and, of course, for what I’ll contribute to that conversation. Next week, we’ll be starting our coverage on Upgrade. We have some fun things in the works from now through the end of April to mark the occasion.
As a side note, I consider myself very lucky to be in a position where I get to share this with someone as knowledgeable as Jason. He has been along for the ride with Apple since the ’90s and has seen everything there is to see.
This milestone feels like something to be enthusiastic about. I’m thankful that I get to reflect on products that have meant so much to me, and that have given me so much. I hope you’ll join me.
