The Talk Show With John Gruber 423: ‘Sewing Machine Repair Shop’, With Patrick McGee
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May 30, 2025 
Patrick McGee, author of "Apple in China" and Financial Times reporter, shares fascinating insights into Apple's intricate supply chain and its steep learning curve in manufacturing outside the country. He discusses how Apple's design philosophy and political landscape shaped its operations, especially amid tariff challenges. McGee also reflects on the transformation from overlooked engineering stories to broader narratives, highlighting the innovative tension between aesthetics and functionality that defines Apple's ongoing journey in tech.
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2018 iPhone XR Crisis Uncovered
- In 2018, Apple faced a "five alarm fire" crisis where internal sales data showed iPhone XR demand was disastrously low in China.
- Tim Cook publicly assured investors all was well even as production was slashed days later.
Apple's Legendary Pursuit of Thinness
- Apple's drive to make devices thinner led the industry for 25 years and pushed competitors to innovate on thickness and weight.
- Steve Jobs' influence persists in Apple's obsession with thinness, balancing design ambition with practical battery life needs.
Apple's Huge China Equipment Investment
- By 2012, Apple owned more production equipment in China than its entire US real estate portfolio.
- This reflects Apple's deep operational presence without owning the factories themselves.
