90: Speculative Abandonware

Compatibility

The discussion highlights the challenges Apple faces with backward compatibility in its iWork suite. John Siracusa notes that the new version of iWork cannot open files created with versions earlier than iWork '09, forcing users to find older software to access their documents 1. This approach contrasts with Microsoft's commitment to maintaining backward compatibility, which Siracusa argues is crucial for user trust 2. Marco Arment suggests that Apple's lack of attention to these apps might be due to resource constraints, impacting their ability to support older formats 2.

   

Design Philosophy

Apple's software design philosophy often prioritizes innovation over maintaining existing features, which can lead to user frustration. Marco Arment expresses concern that Apple's rapid changes in software, like with Final Cut Pro X, sometimes alienate users who rely on existing functionalities 3. Siracusa points out that while Apple's hardware remains strong, its software struggles with consistency and reliability, diminishing its reputation for seamless user experience 4. This philosophy contrasts with Microsoft's approach, which balances innovation with user needs, maintaining a stable and reliable software environment.

   

File Formats

The evolution of file formats in Apple's software has sparked controversy due to its impact on user accessibility. Marco Arment describes the initial iWork file formats as problematic, being directories rather than single files, complicating email and web uploads 5. Siracusa argues that Apple's frequent changes to file formats, without supporting older versions, shows a lack of respect for users' past work 6. This inconsistency in file format support is seen as a barrier to adoption, as users fear losing access to their documents with each software update.