Apple's Mistake

Apple's App Store approval process is severely flawed, and it's causing significant damage to their reputation among programmers. This is a stark contrast to the past when Apple was admired, almost to a fault, by its fans and developers. Now, many programmers perceive Apple as 'evil' due to the App Store's policies.

Apple's core issue is a misunderstanding of software. They manage iPhone apps like music sales through iTunes, where they control the user experience and set the terms. This approach doesn't translate well to software, where direct interaction between developer and user is crucial. Software development is dynamic, with frequent updates and iterations, but Apple's lengthy and unpredictable approval process hinders this, leading to outdated and buggy apps in the App Store.

Developers are forced to submit to Apple's rigid standards, which often results in a subpar version of their app being available to users. The approval process is seen as a 'karma leak' for Apple, with developers feeling frustrated and powerless.

Apple's hardware, like the new 27" iMac, continues to impress, but purchasing it now comes with a moral dilemma. The company's practices have started to evoke feelings similar to supporting a regime with poor human rights records.

Apple should be concerned about alienating programmers. These individuals are potential employees, and a company perceived as 'evil' will struggle to attract top talent. The best programmers seek employers with integrity, as they have the luxury of choice and prefer environments where the best ideas prevail.

Google's motto, "Don't be evil," serves as a reminder to avoid arrogance and maintain principles. Apple, on the other hand, seems to have strayed from their original values. The famous 1984 ad now ironically reflects Apple's current stance as the authoritarian figure rather than the rebel.

Developers are essential for a platform's success, as seen with VisiCalc and the Apple II. Despite the frustrations with the App Store, developers continue to create iPhone apps because of their personal use and preference for the platform. However, they are also seeking alternatives.

Android is the only credible contender to break Apple's cycle, but Google doesn't prioritize it as Apple does the iPhone. The future of handheld devices is uncertain, and Apple's monopoly is concerning. To shift developers' focus, a new device would need to appeal specifically to them, possibly as a development machine.

Apple's policies are the problem, not their products, and policies can change instantly. The call to action is clear: Apple needs to adapt and respect the software development process to maintain its relationship with developers and its position in the industry.

The original article: https://paulgraham.com/apple.html