Steve Jobs resigned as Apple CEO not long ago, and the reaction of most people (myself included) was sadness. I’ve never tried to hide the fact that I don’t like Apple’s business practise. I like companies that are constantly coming up with new things, rather than suing their competitors. However, Steve Jobs brought a consistently high standard of quality to Apple, and that is their major success. The cult following that Apple have is something to be admired (and no, I’m not talking about the fanboys/girls); the fact that people can have so much dedication to a brand is both a powerful tool for that company to utilise, as well as something to be in awe at. 

It’s truly heartbreaking to see someone driven to tears by the resignation of Jobs, and I’ve realised that Apple are too much of an easy target, and are criticised rather too much. I know this because I myself am guilty of it. I resent Apple’s attitude toward the rest of the mobile industry; I think they have no respect or consideration for others, but most people out there who buy Apple products are not concerned with the company’s business acumen. After all, isn’t the consumer the most important component? What I saw in that video wasn’t a fangirl, but someone who just loves the brand. I have enormous respect for iJustine simply because she loves the Apple brand yet doesn’t show nor direct any animosity toward those who prefer other companies or platforms. I respect Apple ten times more now than I did yesterday, simply because of some people’s reactions to Jobs’ resignation; it says a lot of good things about how the brand empowers people. People can make a very personal connection to Apple, and Steve Jobs was, and still is, a huge part of that.

Heck, I couldn’t make a personal connection to Google no matter how hard I try.