In the technology world, we often use the term RIP anthropomorphically when we refer to older, obsolete versions of operating systems, browsers, compilers and just about any antiquated technology. Just name the device and there is probably a blog, or an article with RIP in front of the name. Here’s an article from Wired on the death of the Floppy Disk: http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2010/04/sony-announces-the-death-of-the-floppy-disk/.
On October 5, 2011 we place RIP in front of Steve Jobs. Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple, and the reason Forrest Gump didn’t have to worry about money anymore, was an amazing icon in the computer world. Rottenly discarded from Apple in 1985, he returned a decade later and rejuvenated the company with innovations such as the iMac, iPod, iPhone and iPad. His visions have set the path, not only for how we use computers today, but how we will use them in the future.
Personally, I have only owned a couple Apple devices. In 2001, I purchased an iPod and I was happy that I could store all my music on one portable device. I still have that iPod, although it lasts about 2 minutes without being plugged into my car adapter. And in 2007 I purchased an iPhone, which allowed me to browse the web and talk on the phone while camping on the beach (entirely unnecessary, I know). While I have shifted my appetite from Apple to Android, I respect the quality of Apple products. Under Steve Jobs, Apple pursued perfection and in many instances succeeding in producing flawless products. Until his recent passing, the technology world waited in anticipation, and some in trepidation, for each new product Apple produced (pun intended).
I remember, not that long ago when Steve Jobs unveiled the iPad. The world laughed and said it was just a bigger iPhone. 20 million or-so iPad sales later….
Rest in Peace, Steve Jobs… RIP.