For the past few weeks, we have seen a flurry of leaked parts from Apple. Today, just three weeks before the expected launch of the new iPhone, iResq has rebuilt the new iPhone from spare parts, revealing the new connector – a micro USB-sized port that I predicted a month ago – and a slightly longer screen. The numerous photos of this new model point to several things, most importantly Apple’s new role in the supplier ecosystem.
Remember the Good Old Days?
Two years ago, when Steve Jobs was still at the helm, Apple security and local police literally busted down Jason Chen’s door and stole his computers at Apple’s behest. This was a time when Apple prioritized security and secrecy above all else. However, times have changed, and it seems that Apple is now shrugging its shoulders at leakers.
"We continue to be impacted by rumors and speculation regarding new products," said Peter Oppenheimer, Apple CFO, in a statement. Two years ago, Apple had the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office as their private army. Now they’re all "Shit happens."
The Leaks: A Symptom of a Bigger Issue
I’m far less interested in an iPhone rebuilt from scrap parts than asking how these scrap parts leaked in the first place. To be honest, I preferred an Apple that was trying to change the CE manufacturing industry by forcing accountability, control, and secrecy.
Manufacturers love leaking information in an effort to pump and dump their stock. Earlier, a post in Digitimes simply hinting at an Apple partnership would usually do the trick. Now, with a new, kinder Tim Cook at the helm, it’s clear that manufacturers are far less afraid of Cupertino.
A Manufacturing Environment Without Apple: The Dark Days May Return
I’m upset by this for one reason: a manufacturing environment without Apple will be far less regulated and far more damaging environmentally and in terms of human capital. Mike Daisey and his magical, iPad-stroking crippled men aside, Apple has done more to change the face of Asian manufacturing than any hardware company.
The constant refrain of "Cheaper, faster, less regulation" was completely upset by Apple’s power and the subsequent criticism that their role in the industry forced them to accept. Apple, by dint of being the largest and most lucrative customer for many of these factories, forced the factories to change. When Greenpeace and This American Life are against you (and I still think Apple knowingly ignored human rights issues until they didn’t), you try to change things as quickly as possible.
The Fear Factor: A Double-Edged Sword
These leaks show that this fear (and perhaps respect) has diminished considerably. Hardware suppliers don’t care, repair shops don’t care, and soon Foxconn won’t care. An Apple without teeth isn’t much better than an Apple that seizes journalists’ laptops on a whim.
I do have a theory (and it’s far-fetched) as to why these leaks are happening: Apple’s new focus on secrecy may not be enough to stem the tide of leaked information. With the rise of social media and the 24-hour news cycle, secrets are harder to keep than ever before.
The Consequences of Losing the Fear Factor
If Apple continues down this path, we can expect more leaks, more rumors, and more speculation. The company’s reputation will suffer, and their ability to innovate and surprise will be diminished. In a world where secrecy is key, Apple needs to find a way to regain its fear factor.
What’s Next for Apple?
Only time will tell if Apple can regain its footing in the supplier ecosystem. Will they be able to restore the fear factor that once made them the most innovative and secretive company in the world? Only time will tell.
For now, we can only speculate on what the future holds for Apple. One thing is certain: the game has changed, and Apple needs to adapt quickly if they want to remain relevant in a world where secrecy is no longer enough.
Stay Tuned
As the days go by, we’ll continue to follow the story of Apple’s leaked parts and the implications it has for the company’s future. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story!
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