Steve Jobs on iPods, Macs, new Microsoft ads, and Apple stock (video)

[AppleInsider]

When asked in a television interview what he thought of Microsoft's new television ad featuring Bill Gates and Jerry Seinfeld, Steve Jobs could only muster an "uhhhm." He had a bit more to say on the state of the iPod, Mac, and Apple's stock performance.

In the interview with CNBC's Jim Goldman Tuesday following his presentation of new iPods, Jobs acknowledged that the third-generation iPod nano "fatboy" released last year wasn't as well received as the two models that preceded it, which prompted the player's return to a more vertical form-factor this year.

"It was very clear to us that customers preferred the vertical form-factor for their iPods. That was the first- and second-generation," he said. "The third-generation we went to a squarish design so we could fit in a really high-res screen. And we managed to do both in this [fourth-generation iPod nano]."

Jobs also defended his decision to focus exclusively on Apple's music business on Tuesday, adding that the invite for the event was intended to drive a message Wall Street and industry followers who may have been hoping for announcements related to the company's Mac line.

"Between what we introduced in iPods and the new iTunes 8 with the Genius playlist feature; we had a lot to talk about today," he said. "And..., you know, the invite we sent out said Let's Rock!. So we were trying to...you know..."

Asked if he's surprised at the continued success of his company's computer business, Jobs commented that he believes the Mac has reached a "tipping point" thanks to consumers who are finally looking at the systems as a viable alternative to Windows.

"The other interesting that's happening is that people used to buy a computer for home because they used it at work," he said. "But now, there's enough momentum in Mac in the home that they're starting to say, 'why can't I use this easy to use computer at work too.'"

In the 7 minute interview, Jobs also discusses some of the company's recent missteps, his expectations for the upcoming iPhone 2.1 software update, and the performance of Apple's shares. Although Goldman agreed not to address speculation about Jobs' health on camera, he was allowed to ask him a question in passing about the matter off camera.

"I'm doing fine, really," Jobs said, throwing out an off-hand remark that all recent rumors and speculation over his well-being were spawned by "hedge funds with a big short position in Apple."

[ View this article at AppleInsider.com ]

[walshbj]

aapl shares are on SALE - get them while they're cheap!!

[teckstud]

"And..., you know, the invite we sent out said Let's Rock!. So we were trying to...you know..."

....and you have Jack Johnson perform? Wasn't Pat Boone available?
Whatever!

[Tony1]

You know with all the hickups and glitches I'm still hard pressed to ever switch over to the dark side. SJ's attitude, as well as Apples sleek products will keep me on board for another 25 years. Nice little interview; you've gotta love this guy.

[msb0014]

1 . Steve looks very gaunt, needs some Weight Gain 4000.

2. I've been an Apple shareholder for 3 years now and it befuddles me when that they continue to make the most innovative products, continue to blow quarterly numbers out of the box and the stock somehow goes down? There is not a better cell phone on the market, not even close.

Well, I think that this time next year the stock will either split or be at $260 dollars.

[aaarrrgggh]

For anybody that ever says they regret not buying Apple shares "...back when", prepare to curse yourself again if you miss the opportunity now.

The hedge funds are having enough trouble with liquidating commodities, all it will take is a little good news and it should see at least a $30 bounce. As it stands now, people are starting to liquidate the short interests slowly.

[Jimzip]

Originally Posted by inolikeai

I find it strange that the video gives the impression that it's an Apple Insider video. Note the Apple Insider watermark on the bottom left. Typical AI behavior.

I don't think CNBC will take too kindly to this. The entire web page capture and screen shots have been sent to CNBC.

Oh boo hoo.

Anyway, yeah nice interview, the interviewer was good enough, some stupid questions in there as usual. Come on dude, you're sitting with one of the greatest technological pioneers of our time and you ask "Do you think these will sell?"...

Jimzip

[GordonComstock]

Jeez, an interviewer from the "let's see if I can make this question sound as inane as possible AND be longer than the answer." Awful questions, though handled well by SJ.

gc

[DimMok]

Notice how Steves head appears to be floating...kinda creepy.

Benefits of wearing black, I guess.

That interviewer was terrrible.

[vercordio]

I feel like such an Apple fanboy saying this, but I think the new ad with Jerry Seinfeld and Bill Gates is markedly unfunny. I'm a 23-year-old, so I'm fairly certain I'm within their target audience, and I don't get it at all.

I have a real appreciation for CP+B (the agency doing all the new Microsoft advertising), and have been looking forward to these ads for some time. So far, very disappointing.

Does anyone else feel the same?

--Aaron

[solsun]

I wonder if his PR people made him get that spray tan.

[teckstud]

Originally Posted by solsun

I wonder if his PR people made him get that spray tan.

With a profile named "solsun' you must be appalled.

[Booga]

I'm 35, and I thought they were pretty stupid, too. But then, I've never bought a copy of Windows and only bought MS Office when my company offered the full Mac version for home use for $20, so I doubt this campaign was targeted to sway me.

[EyeNsteinNo]

That politician explained it yesterday. "putting lipstick on a pig (e.g. Vista) ......... but its still a pig....". But instead of lipstick looks like they are putting shoes on the pig.

[kresh]

Originally Posted by msb0014

I've been an Apple shareholder for 3 years now and it befuddles me when that they continue to make the most innovative products, continue to blow quarterly numbers out of the box and the stock somehow goes down?

Because in the beginning the stock market was a way for individuals and companies to invest in other companies. Way back when you knew the company, who ran it and what their core business was. Now it is all about day traders. They don't care who the company is, who is running the company or what the core business is. It is all about the voodoo metrics and making a quick buck.

What used to be a sound way to invest money has become nothing more than nationally sanctioned gambling. It is no different than poker, craps or betting on the horse race. What a shame

You should read how some of the wealthy individuals who survived the Great Depression. One of them gave an account of how one day he was in an elevator and the attendant was giving a maintenance worker a stock tip and bragging how much money he was making. This wealthy individual sold off all his stock three days later. He reasoned that if every Tom, Dick and Harry was making money then it was nothing more than gambling. Sure enough, a week later was Black Tuesday. Having survived with his cash intact, he was able to buy real estate on the cheap. It was an amazing story.

It makes one think ...

[e1618978]

Originally Posted by kresh

Sure enough, a week later was Black Tuesday. Having survived with his cash intact, he was able to buy real estate on the cheap.

That rich guy was Joe Kennedy - and I hope that he didn't start buying right away, because asset values continued to drop for three years following the crash.

But Apple is a screaming buy right now - I have 16% of my portfolio in Apple stock and I am thinking of buying more.

[Wiggin]

Originally Posted by vercordio

I feel like such an Apple fanboy saying this, but I think the new ad with Jerry Seinfeld and Bill Gates is markedly unfunny. I'm a 23-year-old, so I'm fairly certain I'm within their target audience, and I don't get it at all.

I have a real appreciation for CP+B (the agency doing all the new Microsoft advertising), and have been looking forward to these ads for some time. So far, very disappointing.

Does anyone else feel the same?

--Aaron

I saw the commercial for the first time last night. In all seriousness, I felt like I was watching Grumpy Old Men. Not that they were grumpy, but Gates and Seinfeld both looked very old. Unless they are trying to market Windows to retirees, they are way off the mark.

[digitalclips]

Originally Posted by kresh

Because in the beginning the stock market was a way for individuals and companies to invest in other companies. Way back when you knew the company, who ran it and what their core business was. Now it is all about day traders. They don't care who the company is, who is running the company or what the core business is. It is all about the voodoo metrics and making a quick buck.

What used to be a sound way to invest money has become nothing more than nationally sanctioned gambling. It is no different than poker, craps or betting on the horse race. What a shame

You should read how some of the wealthy individuals who survived the Great Depression. One of them gave an account of how one day he was in an elevator and the attendant was giving a maintenance worker a stock tip and bragging how much money he was making. This wealthy individual sold off all his stock three days later. He reasoned that if every Tom, Dick and Harry was making money then it was nothing more than gambling. Sure enough, a week later was Black Tuesday. Having survived with his cash intact, he was able to buy real estate on the cheap. It was an amazing story.

It makes one think ...

Thanks for an excellent explanation. Sadly I agree totally and now I can show your notes to my wife who berates me for having so much AAPL stock, much bought at <50 believing in a decade it will be 500+. I too believed in the long haul and am exasperated to see the negative reaction of investors to one of the best companies out there.

[Lanky Nibbs]

Originally Posted by teckstud

....and you have Jack Johnson perform? Wasn't Pat Boone available?
Whatever!

Ha ha, seriously.

When I saw Jack Johnson at the "Let's Rock" event, I thought of Futurama:

Fry: "So, I really am important? How I feel when I'm drunk is correct?"
Nibblonian 1: "Yes. Except the Dave Matthews Band doesn't rock."

Jack Johnson may "rock" as a person, or as performer of acoustic pop, but Jack Johnson does not "rock" in any musical sense.

At least Pat Boone did a metal tribute album, for christ's sake.

[solipsism]

Originally Posted by Lanky Nibbs

Jack Johnson may "rock" as a person, or as performer of acoustic pop, but Jack Johnson does not "rock" in any musical sense.

Good news everybody! Jack Johnson rocks the iTS sales.

[internetworld7]

I wonder why Steve Jobs missed the moment to speak about how stupid that new Microsoft commercial is? I guess he's older now because a younger Steve Jobs would have handled it something like this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upzKj-1HaKw

[Ireland]

Originally Posted by internetworld7

I wonder why Steve Jobs missed the moment to speak about how stupid that new Microsoft commercial is? I guess he's older now because a younger Steve Jobs would have handled it something like this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upzKj-1HaKw

Younger Steve was more of a jerk.

[solipsism]

Originally Posted by Ireland

Younger Steve was more of a jerk.

I don't think he's any less of a jerk. He's only changed the way he plays the game, not his attitude toward his opponents.

[jittery jimmy]

Jobs looks like he's at a pretty healthy weight to me, but then again, I'm living and working in Europe, and so perhaps Americans, which have some kind of pride of being grossly overweight and who enjoy the Captain's Platter at the Red Lobster every Friday night simply don't like the look of people who manage their diet.

Unlike the Jobs of 10 years ago, he looks a hell of a lot healthier to me. Back then, I would have bet that he would have a heart attack by the time he was 50. Now it looks like he's in full control of his diet.

[TBell]

I think it has more to do with Bill Gates being in the commercial. Jobs respects Gates or in the very least doesn't see any reason to attack Gates. Why burn bridges? For instance, because of Jobs relationship with Gates, Jobs was able to get Microsoft to step in and help Apple when it needed the help most years ago. I have seen Jobs attack Microsoft, but never Gates. There is nothing to be gained by attacking the commercial. The work speaks for itself.

Originally Posted by internetworld7

I wonder why Steve Jobs missed the moment to speak about how stupid that new Microsoft commercial is? I guess he's older now because a younger Steve Jobs would have handled it something like this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upzKj-1HaKw

[danielchow]

i've never thought of seinfeld as funny.

microsoft's latest advertisement is as pointless as seinfeld's sitcom.

Originally Posted by vercordio

I feel like such an Apple fanboy saying this, but I think the new ad with Jerry Seinfeld and Bill Gates is markedly unfunny. I'm a 23-year-old, so I'm fairly certain I'm within their target audience, and I don't get it at all.

I have a real appreciation for CP+B (the agency doing all the new Microsoft advertising), and have been looking forward to these ads for some time. So far, very disappointing.

Does anyone else feel the same?

--Aaron

[msb0014]

Originally Posted by e1618978

That rich guy was Joe Kennedy - and I hope that he didn't start buying right away, because asset values continued to drop for three years following the crash.

But Apple is a screaming buy right now - I have 16% of my portfolio in Apple stock and I am thinking of buying more.

Yup, the story is Joe Kennedy was getting a shoeshine and the shoeshine asked him what stocks he should buy. Kennedy then thought, if a shoeshine is getting into the game, I'm out!

[teckstud]

Originally Posted by Lanky Nibbs

At least Pat Boone did a metal tribute album, for christ's sake.

HA! That's scary! That's like Marilyn Manson covering Karen Carpenter.

[cameronj]

Originally Posted by msb0014

1 . Steve looks very gaunt, needs some Weight Gain 4000.

2. I've been an Apple shareholder for 3 years now and it befuddles me when that they continue to make the most innovative products, continue to blow quarterly numbers out of the box and the stock somehow goes down? There is not a better cell phone on the market, not even close.

You must not be paying close attention if you think the stock has gone down over the last three years.

Your expectations are simply too high - guess what - if it was as easy to double your month in 12 months as AAPL has made it in the past 3 years, we'd all be millionaires. But when that starts happening, the smart money zigs while the dumb money zags, and the dumb money is left holding it's head wondering why the stock no longer goes anywhere.

[cameronj]

Originally Posted by kresh

You should read how some of the wealthy individuals who survived the Great Depression. One of them gave an account of how one day he was in an elevator and the attendant was giving a maintenance worker a stock tip and bragging how much money he was making. This wealthy individual sold off all his stock three days later. He reasoned that if every Tom, Dick and Harry was making money then it was nothing more than gambling. Sure enough, a week later was Black Tuesday. Having survived with his cash intact, he was able to buy real estate on the cheap. It was an amazing story.

Interesting anecdote, but you missed the point.

Once every Tom, Dick and Harry owns a stock, there are no more suckers to buy and the smart money rotates out. You see a lot of dumb money complaining about that phenomenon on this and MR forums.

[cameronj]

Originally Posted by jittery jimmy

Jobs looks like he's at a pretty healthy weight to me, but then again, I'm living and working in Europe, and so perhaps Americans, which have some kind of pride of being grossly overweight and who enjoy the Captain's Platter at the Red Lobster every Friday night simply don't like the look of people who manage their diet.

What a lovely thing to say. If only everyone in America was as cultured, intelligent and kind as you.

[Ireland]

Originally Posted by danielchow

i've never thought of seinfeld as funny.

microsoft's latest advertisement is as pointless as seinfeld's sitcom.

Yeah, he's not funny. A poor man's comic.

[Muncie]

Originally Posted by cameronj

What a lovely thing to say. If only everyone in America was as cultured, intelligent and kind as you.

Since United Statesians are more obese than the rest of the world, the pins were already in place for Jittery Jimmy. He simply exercised a modicum of comic timing in knocking them down.

[Cbswe]

Originally Posted by msb0014

There is not a better cell phone on the market, not even close.

That is a misconception, there are many smartphone models that are far more powerful and advanced then iPhone. However there is no doubt that iPhone looks better then most of them outside as well as it's UI.

[solipsism]

Originally Posted by Cbswe

That is a misconception, there are many smartphone models that are far more powerful and advanced then iPhone. However there is no doubt that iPhone looks better then most of them outside as well as it's UI.

Like what?

[Cbswe]

Originally Posted by danielchow

i've never thought of seinfeld as funny.

microsoft's latest advertisement is as pointless as seinfeld's sitcom.

There's several million people who will disagree with you on that one.

However I thought the commercial was just awful, they screwed it all up, here's why:

You can't tell if Bill Gates or Jerry Seinfeld is the dominant guy, Seinfeld definitely should be and yet the ad slightly suggest the opposite. Seinfeld is being presented as quirky and Gates as eccentric. Gates reputation with the general population is that he's a rich and powerful nerd, and some know he's donated some cash. Seinfeld's reputation is that he is a very funny guy wich makes the people's respect for him by far exceed Gates's.

So to make the ad work they have to do this one thing:
• Remove Bill Gates! (Put him in a separate ad, in a trash-can, whatever)

[Cbswe]

Originally Posted by solipsism

Like what?

As in 'Like wich models?'?

Nokia N95 has been out for more then one and a half year now and has a much better processor, ram, graphic card and camera then iPhone 3G. It also has a way more compatible web browser.
On the 8GB-version you can play Quake II with OpenGL support, soon there'll be a Quake III port to it. It just an example of the power in the phone, it does not necessarily make it a more useful phone, but the point is that it exceed iPhone 3G in many areas. So, iPhone 3G is _not_ the ultimate phone that is far better then every other phone in all ways. I just want it clarified, I don't want to start a war about what one thinks about what is relevant for how good a phone is.

I'm rather sure there's a lot of other equally good smartphones out there that are also as "good" or slightly better then iPhone, I'm not that into any brand other then Nokia and Apple.

I think what would be really cool is a iPhone mini... it should come out sooner or later =)

[solipsism]

Originally Posted by Cbswe

As in 'Like wich models?'?

Nokia N95 has been out for more then one and a half year now and has a much better processor, ram, graphic card and camera then iPhone 3G. It also has a way more compatible web browser.
On the 8GB-version you can play Quake II with OpenGL support, soon there'll be a Quake III port to it. It just an example of the power in the phone, it does not necessarily make it a more useful phone, but the point is that it exceed iPhone 3G in many areas. So, iPhone 3G is _not_ the ultimate phone that is far better then every other phone in all ways.

You said "there are many smartphone models that are far more powerful " I'm curious which phones these are. I keep pretty good tabs on all the smartphones and know of only one with a more powerful CPU, and that only bests it by about 4Mhz and it isn't even out unti.l next month. There is no one phone that bests all other phones in every category, but the iPhone's performance is one area that is does excel in. Both it's 620MHZ CPU (underclocked to 412) and PowerVR chip. The Nokia N95 has it's own strengths, too, many of which completely trounce the iPhone because it doesn't even have that functionality, but performance isn't one of them.

[ByronVanArsdale]

Originally Posted by Wiggin

I saw the commercial for the first time last night. In all seriousness, I felt like I was watching Grumpy Old Men. Not that they were grumpy, but Gates and Seinfeld both looked very old. Unless they are trying to market Windows to retirees, they are way off the mark.

Agreed. I did a quick rewind just to make sure it WAS a vista ad given that Bill Gates and Jerry S. were in it. I am not their target mkt so who is?

Very strange yet somehow completely congruent......

[joelsalt]

Originally Posted by teckstud

....and you have Jack Johnson perform? Wasn't Pat Boone available?
Whatever!

hahahahaha