In this engaging discussion, Matt Gemmell, an accomplished author known for his thriller and horror novels, shares his compelling journey of using an iPad as his sole computer for eight and a half years. He reveals the reasons behind his recent switch back to the Mac, highlighting the reliability and customization it offers for his creative tasks. The conversation explores the evolution of tech, the balance between minimalist and versatile approaches in productivity, and the creative processes that inform his writing, all while reflecting on the changing identity of the iPad.
Matt Gemmell discusses how skills in coding can enhance storytelling, illustrating the connection between computer science and creative writing.
The transition back to the Mac highlighted the improved processing power and storage options, emphasizing technological advancements that streamline creative workflows.
Gemmell appreciates familiar tools like BBEdit and the stability of the Mac platform, which enhances project management and user experience.
Deep dives
The Connection Between Technology and Creativity
The guest emphasizes the relationship between computer science and creative writing, suggesting that skills in coding can contribute to storytelling abilities. This connection illustrates how technology can enhance creativity, allowing writers to use tools that improve their efficiency. The guest, previously a long-time iPad user, reflects on how the iPad originally served as an effective device for writing, even claiming that a minimalist approach to computing helped establish focus in his work. This underscores the idea that the right tools can support creativity, though they may not be the end goal.
Upgrading Tech Gear for Optimal Performance
The conversation transitions to the guest's recent upgrade to a 16-inch MacBook Pro, showcasing significant enhancements in processing power and storage capabilities. The guest highlights the importance of Thunderbolt 5 technology, predicting that it will lead to faster external storage solutions, which is critical for handling large files in creative work. Despite high Apple prices for upgrades, the guest compares costs and concludes that purchasing third-party storage options will likely be more economical. This discussion illustrates how technology advancements can foster better workflow in creative fields.
Navigating the Transition: iPad to Mac
As the guest reflects on switching back to a Mac after using an iPad for eight and a half years, he notes several friction points during the transition. He mentions that the experience felt both familiar and alien, as he encountered numerous changes in software and security protocols. The guest appreciates the stability offered by the Mac platform, where settings and applications maintain their state more reliably than on the iPad. This stability, along with the ability to manage projects with more customization and less reinstating of settings, adds value to the Mac experience.
The Joy of Using E-Ink Devices like the SuperNote
The conversation dives into the functionality and appeal of the SuperNote, an e-ink tablet that enhances the note-taking experience. The guest shares his delight with the SuperNote's features, such as a ceramic-tipped stylus that mimics the feel of writing on paper, enhancing creativity and spontaneity. He contrasts this experience with using the iPad and outlines that while the iPad is versatile, the SuperNote fulfills a specific niche for focused thought and planning. The long battery life and tactile experience are cited as reasons why the SuperNote is a valuable addition to a writer's toolkit.
Delight in the Familiar: Favorite Apps and Tools
The guest expresses joy in revisiting familiar applications upon returning to the Mac platform, particularly highlighting BBEdit as a long-time favorite. He appreciates its robustness for coding and editing, emphasizing a sense of nostalgia for this tool. Alongside BBEdit, other utilities like Alfred for productivity and Moom for window management enhance the workflow significantly. These mentions reflect an understanding that while software may evolve, the core needs for efficiency and ease of use remain constant in a creator's ecosystem.
Author Matt Gemmell joins Stephen and David to talk about using an iPad as his only computer for eight and a half years and why he recently switched back to the Mac.