Life in Seven Songs He shaped the iPhone—so what shaped Jony Ive?
Jul 2, 2024
Sir Jony Ive, the legendary British industrial designer and former Chief Design Officer at Apple, reflects on his inspiring journey from a shy child disassembling objects to creating iconic devices like the iPhone. He shares anecdotes about his creative rapport with Steve Jobs and the nostalgic pull of San Francisco. A standout moment includes his emotional connection to the Apple Watch, which he considers his proudest achievement. Also discussed are the influences of music, particularly The Police and U2, on his design philosophy and optimism for the future.
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Simplicity Reveals Layers
- He remembers how he listened to music and was drawn to layered simplicity in The Police's track "De Do Do Do, De Da Da Da."
- That attraction mirrors his design preference for simplicity that reveals layers rather than ornament.
Early Workshop Lessons
- Jony Ive learned craft by making projects with his father in a home workshop from a young age.
- He had to clearly communicate his idea and draw it before his father would help build it.
Soundtrack To College Commutes
- At college Jony saved for a Sony Sportsman Walkman and felt like he was "in a movie" listening to Roy Budd's Get Carter soundtrack.
- Portable listening shaped his sense of place and made everyday travel feel cinematic.