Steve Jobs in Exile: The Turbulent Journey of NeXT Computer and the Redemption of Apple
Steve Jobs faced challenges after leaving Apple and founded NeXT Computer. Despite significant investments and talented engineers, NeXT struggled to achieve commercial success. The company's high-priced products failed to attract customers, while Apple thrived in the early 1990s. Geoffrey Cain's book, "Steve Jobs in Exile," delves into the turbulent period of Jobs' career at NeXT, where employees faced burnout and financial losses.
One notable incident involved NeXT selling computers to the US government for potentially questionable purposes, sparking ethical debates. Jobs also clashed with Grateful Dead lyricist John Perry Barlow over marketing strategies during a low point in his career. Despite these challenges, Jobs later returned to Apple and revitalized the company with groundbreaking products.
Cain's book sheds light on lesser-known stories, such as NeXT's success with WebObjects software for e-commerce in the mid-1990s. Jobs famously ordered a pizza online using this software, showcasing his innovative approach even during challenging times. The book highlights how failures at NeXT ultimately paved the way for Jobs' triumphant return to Apple in 1997.
Through extensive research and access to Apple's corporate archives, Cain uncovers valuable insights into Jobs' leadership style and business acumen. The book explores pivotal moments, like Jobs' candid response to criticism at an exhibition, revealing his growth and lessons learned from NeXT. "Steve Jobs in Exile" offers a compelling narrative of resilience and transformation in the face of adversity.
Published by Penguin Random House, the book provides a comprehensive look at Jobs' journey from exile to redemption, offering a fresh perspective on his legacy and impact on the tech industry.