Agenda
7:15 - 8:30 p.m. Discussion
Event Summary
For the May 2026 edition of the Austin Forum book discussion series, we will cover one of the most impactful technology companies in history by discussing two recent books releases about Apple. The first of these is "Apple: The First 50 Years," which is the new book by New York Times technology writer David Pogue. We will also discuss the 2025 best-seller "Apple in China: The Capture of the World's Greatest Company" by Patrick McGee. Through reading and discussing these two books on Apple’s history, evolution, products, and impacts (technological, cultural, business, and more), we will explore how great companies are made, create massive success and delight customerrs, scale, learn from mistakes and adapt, and position themselves for the future.
Questions we will address:
Do you remember the first Apple product you ever used? What product was that and what did the experience feel like? Why are Apple products so appealing to you?
In your mind, how has the company changed since Tim Cook took over leadership of the company following the death of longtime CEO Steve Jobs? How much of the design ethose of the company has changed since the departure of Jony Ive?
Has Apple's shift to ultra low-cost Chinese labor changed your views of this company?
Apple's somewhat loose approach to data privacy was a significant point in Cory Doctorow's recent book "Enshittification" (which was the focus of a March 2026 Austin Forum online discussion). How much of your affection to Apple is related to the strength of its data privacy policies.
What is your all-time favorite Apple product and why?
What kind of product would you like to see Apple design in the future?
This discussion will be led by Hugh Forrest, who has been a Mac devotee since 1989. Please come to the event ready to give your thoughts (positive and less positive) on one of the world's most valuable and most fascinating companies.
Attendance Instructions
Online via Google Meet
Once you register via Eventbrite, you will receive the direct link in your confirmation email. You will also receive the link in a reminder email before the event.
Space is limited, so please register only if you’re confident you can attend—and kindly cancel your registration if your plans change so we can open your spot to another participant.