“If you live each day as if it was your last, someday you’ll most certainly be right.” These were words spoken by Steve Jobs in June 2005, as part of his Stanford commencement address. His words reigned true when he died in last month and the world celebrated the life of a man who left a legacy of innovative thinking. Jobs introduced the world to new ways of seeing and using technology.
Jobs filled a gap he saw in the computer software and design industry by realizing that the function of a device needs a purpose and so does its form. Apple products emphasize this philosophy, making it the forerunner in personal computing. Whether its the Macbook, iPhone, iPad or iPod, Apple products have become a central part of pop culture.
Before the name Steve Jobs became synonymous with Apple, he was a Reed college dropout and according to his own words, had no idea what he wanted to do with his life. He would later go on to find out that dropping out of college in 1972 was one of the best decisions he ever made.
In 1976, he teamed up with his friend Steve Wozniak and built the first Apple computer in his garage. This marked the beginning of a new era in the computer industry and this product and its further development would eventually change the world. In 1984 Macintosh was launched, redefining the personal computer.
Other highlights from Jobs career:
1985: He was fired from Apple, the company he co-founded. He started a new computer company, Next.
1997: Jobs returns as Apple CEO.
2000: Jobs is named permanent CEO of Apple computers.
2001: Apple introduces the iPod and iTunes, revolutionizing the music industry.
2007: The iPhone comes out offering a slew of smartphone applications.
2010: The iPad is released and becomes the fastest selling technological device.
Aug. 2011: Jobs resigns as the CEO of Apple Inc.
Oct. 2011: Jobs dies after a long battle with pancreatic cancer.
Jobs death could place doubt on the company’s ability to introduce new resilient products to the market while allowing existing products to evolve. Still, some loyal Apple customers remain hopeful. “Although [Jobs’ death] is a setback, I think Apple is going to get past it,” said Ross Monckton, fourth-year photography student. “I think their products will continue to amaze people and they’re still gonna be the leader in computers.”
“I don’t think its going to change so much what kinds of technology [Apple] invents,” said France Gatzke, second-year television producing student. “I think they might change the way that their products are marketed. I have a Mac [and it’s] the greatest thing I ever bought. They have all the best programs in my opinion.”
The value of Apple stock went up following the death of Jobs, reassuring faith that Apple will grow. However, Tim Cook, the new COO of Apple still has a tough act to follow in taking over the reins that once belonged to tech visionary Steve Jobs.