Why do people hate Apple?
@marcoarment has a very good, thought-provoking post in his new subscription-based offering, The Magazine. The product philosophy differences between Apple and Google/MS are well documented (closed vs. open), so Arment’s key addition here is defining the difference in the type of people who are attracted to each model:
Our technology choices reflect our values. People willing to yield some control to Apple for their needs are more likely to enjoy the benefits that Apple’s products bring by exerting that control. But people who don’t like being told what to do - people who believe they know what’s best for them, want full control over everything, and are willing to accept the resulting responsibilities - will be more comfortable with the alternatives.
The philosophical differences between these approaches, and the frequent failure to understand both view points, are the roots of anti-Apple anger.
So what is it about the libertarian types who prefer Android/MS that compels them to continually challenge pro-Apple posts and sites, whereas Apple fans tend to simply avoid commenting on the other platforms’ products?
The apparent asymmetry in angry comments is likely because the Apple-fan attitude of aloofness keeps most Apple fans away from dedicated Android and Windows sites and articles, whereas the anti-Apple attitude probably drives many people on that side to try to “rescue” or convince Apple fans that they’re blind or idiotic.
That is, those who are predisposed to choose Apple’s ‘benevolent dictatorship’ are the types of people who just don’t have the time/will/interest to pick a fight - or right a perceived wrong - over that very choice.
Notes