The Steve Jobs Factor

NEW YORK – Normally, you need a distinctive first name not to need a last name, but in this – as in everything that he did – Steve Jobs was different. He was always just “Steve.” In the personal-computing business – which moved from the bulky Apple II to the sleek and intelligent iPhone 4s (announced the day before Steve’s death) – Steve was the only true showman of what is now one of the world’s biggest industries. He inspired broad public enthusiasm for the quality of his products and his personal charisma. (Others have become “business” leaders, but only Steve became someone known and admired by millions – including the Romanian waiter at the British Airways lounge where I am sitting now.)
Esther Dyson
Esther Dyson
Times Reporter