Steve Jobs: The Objects Of Our Life (1983)

Summary

The speaker reflects on the evolution of computers from intimidating machines to essential communication mediums, highlighting the rapid growth of the computer industry since its inception 36 years ago. He emphasizes the importance of design in creating user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing technology, discusses the potential of computer programs as tools for learning and expression, and shares Apple's vision for making personal computing accessible and integral to everyday life. The talk concludes with a Q&A session addressing future technologies like voice recognition and the company's commitment to innovation and employee empowerment.

Takeaways

• 👴 The speaker humorously acknowledges the audience's age, noting that many are older than 36, which is also the age of the computer, marking a generational shift in technology.
• 📺 The speaker reflects on the transition from the television generation to the computer generation, emphasizing the growing dominance of computers as a communication medium.
• 💡 The speaker describes computers as fast, simple machines that excel at executing basic tasks rapidly, which can create an illusion of magic due to their speed.
• 🎓 The speaker mentions the novelty of computer science as a field, with the oldest professionals being only 39, highlighting the youth-driven nature of the industry.
• 🛠️ The speaker uses the analogy of the electric motor to describe the evolution of computers, from large, centralized systems to personal computers that are accessible and user-friendly.
• 💡 The speaker discusses the potential of personal computers as a new medium for communication, comparing it to the transition from radio to television and the emergence of new communication processes.
• 🏭 The speaker calls for better industrial design in computers, arguing that as computers become ubiquitous, their design should be as considered as that of automobiles.
• 🎨 The speaker expresses excitement about the possibilities of computer programs as a form of expression that can capture underlying principles of experiences, enabling creativity and learning.
• 🔗 The speaker talks about the future of computers working together, likening the current state of computer networking to the early days of telephone installations.
• 📚 The speaker mentions Apple's commitment to education, with a program to provide computers to every school in America, aiming to expose students to technology and integrate it into learning.
• 🤝 The speaker emphasizes the importance of hiring great people at Apple, creating an environment where they can make a difference and contribute to the company's innovative culture.

Q & A

What is the significance of the year 1947 mentioned in the script?

The year 1947 is significant because it marks the invention of the first computer, the ENIAC, which was developed for military calculations.

How does the speaker describe the transition from television to computers as a medium of communication?

The speaker describes this transition as a natural evolution, similar to how television replaced radio and books. He suggests that computers will become the predominant medium of communication in the future.

What is the 'fractional horsepower computing' mentioned in the script?

Fractional horsepower computing refers to the development of microprocessor chips, which are essentially computers on a chip. This technology allowed for the creation of smaller, personal computers like the Apple II, making computers more accessible to individuals.

Why does the speaker believe that industrial design is important for computers?

The speaker believes that industrial design is important because computers are becoming a common object in people's working, educational, and home environments. He argues that they should be designed with as much consideration as automobiles.

What is the speaker's view on the current state of computer software design?

The speaker feels that most computer software design is lacking, comparing it to 'junk'. He believes there is a need for better design and is calling for the help of designers to improve the aesthetics and functionality of computers.

What does the speaker mean by 'the personal computer is a new medium'?

The speaker means that the personal computer represents a new form of communication, with its own unique characteristics and capabilities. It allows for different types of interactions and experiences compared to previous technologies.

What is the 'I Love Lucy' stage the speaker refers to in the development of the computer medium?

The 'I Love Lucy' stage is a metaphor used by the speaker to describe the early, somewhat primitive phase in the development of the computer as a medium. It suggests that the full potential of computers as a communication medium is yet to be realized.

What is the speaker's opinion on the future of computer programs?

The speaker believes that computer programs are ideas expressed on paper and can capture the underlying principles of experiences. He sees potential for programs to enable a wide range of experiences and to be interactive learning tools.

How does the speaker describe the process of communication through computers?

The speaker describes it as a process that can be asynchronous, meaning that communication does not require both parties to be present at the same time, unlike telephone communication.

What is the speaker's view on the future of computers in society?

The speaker is optimistic about the future of computers in society. He believes that computers will become an integral part of people's lives, with the potential to revolutionize communication, education, and many other aspects of society.

What is the speaker's perspective on the role of computers in education?

The speaker sees computers as a tool that can enhance learning experiences. He mentions the potential for computers to be used in creating interactive learning environments and personalized educational software.