Is Apple Facing a Windows Vista-Like Crisis?

In a thought-provoking analysis, technology expert Benedict Evans has raised an alarming question: Is Apple entering a phase of significant operational missteps reminiscent of Windows Vista?

Launched in 2007, Microsoft's Windows Vista faced immense backlash due to numerous software bugs and performance issues, and many industry insiders have drawn parallels to Apple's recent challenges. Evans, in his latest blog post, delves into Apple's recent innovation struggles, underscoring what he perceives as a concerning trend.

One cornerstone of Evans's critique is the much-anticipated Vision Pro headset. He believes that Apple launched the product prematurely, stating it appears to be more a conceptual prototype than a fully realized device ready for consumers. Despite the hype surrounding its launch, sales for the Vision Pro have been disappointing, failing to generate significant developer interest or sales volume. The situation has left even some employees within Apple perplexed.

Another focal point of Evans’s concerns is the delay surrounding Apple's personalized Siri features. Originally showcased at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) last year as a finished product, the functionality has now been pushed back indefinitely, with potential release dates stretching into late 2025 or beyond. This delay, he argues, mirrors the issues with the Vision Pro, suggesting that Apple is not meeting its commitments as it once did.

Evans worries that this pattern reflects a more profound problem for Apple. Once characterized by predictable and timely product releases, the company's schedule appears to be slipping. 'The failure of Siri 2 illustrates a broader trend of late launches that were previously unheard of at Apple,' he remarks.

Despite the mounting criticism—claims that Apple has lost its innovative edge have echoed since the '80s—Evans acknowledges that Apple has historically navigated such challenging periods successfully. However, he is left pondering if the innovative Apple known for defining categories is still alive and well in the current landscape.

Ultimately, as murmurs about a 'Vista-like drift' grow louder, the tech community is left to wonder: Is Apple poised for a recovery, or are we witnessing the beginning of a troubling new chapter? Stay tuned, as the coming months may reveal whether Apple can recapture the magic that made it a giant in the tech industry or if it will continue to grapple with these growing pains.