NeXT
Most people associate Jobs' success with Apple, but in the early days, Jobs' relationship with Apple proved to be a rocky one. After being fired from the company he founded in 1985, Jobs founded NeXT, a firm that created computers for business and educational needs. While NeXT wasn't particularly successful based on units sold, the company continues to be an integral part of computers today. Portions of Nextstep operating systems still live on within macOS. Additionally, the famous "Wolfenstein" and "Doom" computer games were written on NeXTcube stations
The iPod
Released in 2001, the iPod was widely recognized as the first user-friendly and innovative means of accessing music on the go. Consumers had used portable radios, CD players, and tape players for remote audio purposes prior to the widespread access of mp3 files. Syncing with Apple’s iTunes program, the iPod gave users the means to carry and purchase hundreds of songs on a single device.
The iPhone
Jobs’ next big product launch was the iPhone. Combining the features of an iPod with those of a phone and computer, the iPhone enabled users to make calls, listen to music, and browse the Internet on one touchscreen-capable device. Besides synchronization to iTunes, the iPhone featured an exclusive App Store that liberated users from purchasing content from wireless carriers. Before the App Store, wireless carriers controlled the distribution of content to phones.
On Nov. 1, 2018, Apple announced it would no longer report the number of iPhones sold. However, between its initial launch in June 2007 and November 2018, cumulative worldwide sales for the iPhone had soared to over $1.6 billion.
The iPad
Taking their cue from the iPhone, Apple and Jobs then created the first touchscreen tablet without a keyboard. A cross between a laptop and an iPhone, the iPad spurred the development of a new industry that other technology companies have since entered. Jobs' influence on retail products has revolutionized consumer technology, forcing engineers and developers to create new and innovative products. Consumers have benefited most from increased competition, as products remain modestly priced but boast increased capabilities and features.
PIXAR
Pixar Animation Studios: In addition to Apple, Jobs also played a significant role in the success of Pixar Animation Studios. After acquiring the company from George Lucas, he became the majority shareholder and served as the chairman and CEO. Under his guidance, Pixar produced groundbreaking computer-animated films like Toy Story, Finding Nemo, and The Incredibles.
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