Tim Cook Shouldn’t Be Fired, Says Steve Wozniak

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Gadget-loving Steve Wozniak sounds like he won't be queuing for the iWatch on its day of release.
Gadget-loving Steve Wozniak sounds like he won't be queuing for the iWatch on its day of release.

Steve Wozniak hasn’t been involved in Apple business for a long, long time. However, that wasn’t enough to stop him from participating in a recent, wide-ranging discussion at CeBIT 2014 in Hannover — on everything from Tim Cook’s performance as CEO, to whether or not Apple still has the cool factor.

Below are excerpts from the interactive session, moderated by TV anchor Brent Goff:

On whether he agrees with analysts calling for Cook to be fired, after Apple shares dropped by 25% since October 2012?

I don’t agree. Cook [hasn’t] been at the helm of Apple for a long enough time. We haven’t seen what new categories of products are being developed secretly. Who knows what’s going on in the company. But we have had stiff competition in the smartphones arena. Unfortunately, a lot of other companies came up with great products. But look at who is number one as far as sales, profits and company valuation are concerned. Tim Cook is a hard worker and he is very good at execution. I don’t know him too closely. But, I’m willing to wait for a longer time.

On whether Jobs’ death was fatal for Apple?

I would never say that. It’s a sort of looking back thing. If Jobs had lived, would Apple be better or worse than what it is now, I think, nobody can look back and say if the company had made different decisions, it would have great. But what you got to say is how we can be constructive on the path that will get the best for Apple.

On whether a new product would be out now, in the event that Jobs had lived?

There are a lot more people in the world who are not technically oriented like this audience, but they are afraid to acknowledge to the world that they don’t know how to use a smartphone. The safest place for them is a world that doesn’t change and where they feel protected. iPhone is the best place for the masses. And yes, there is too much of expectation from Apple.

On what technology he uses now?

I use my iPhones as mobile technology and I use Macbook Pro computer when I’m in a hotel for efficient typing and larger screen space. I try to look upon a lot of things on tablets. The computer screen is a lot better for me. I live with both the worlds, but the computer is more important overall. Smartphones, are one of the important category among products, but I like buying laser beam projectors and smart products that do new things.

On whether Apple is still cool?

Yes. In the past, Apple has been a leader in setting the new tone and direction for the world. Apple has this reputation where everyone is looking up to it for the future. Apple has been a star.

Source: Times of India

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