In a fascinating interview given at the All Things D D10 conference, Apple CEO Tim Cook revealed his thoughts on a variety of topics, including the patent wars, Apple under his leadership, Siri, Facebook and much more.
He stressed that Apple ‘shouldn’t be the developer for the world’, as well as asking people to ‘stay tuned’ with regard to possible Facebook integration. Cook also said that patent wars were a ‘pain in the ass’, and that they would be ‘doubling down’ on improving Siri.
Cook also gave details about Steve Jobs and his transition to CEO (transcript provided by MacRumors):
What did you learn from Steve?
Cook: I learned a lot from Steve. It was one of the saddest days of my life when he passed away.
As much as you could see or predict that, I really didn’t. At some point late last year, somebody shook me and said “It’s time to get on.”
That sadness was replaced by this intense determination to resume the journey. We could be here all night, maybe a week or maybe a month. Focus is key. Not just in your company, but in your personal life as well.
Do many things great and cast aside everything else.
In the business we’re in, own the technology. Steve was laser focused on that and that’s ingrained in us.
Do things great, don’t accept good. That’s ingrained. Apple has a culture of excellence that is so unique. I’m not going to witness or permit the change of it.
He also taught me that the joy is in the journey. And he taught all of us that life is fragile. We’re not guaranteed tomorrow, so give it everything you’ve got.
While the interview didn’t reveal anything about upcoming products, it really is fascinating and I would highly recommend you watch the highlights, as well as other parts of it which you can find on the AllThingsD website.
