Steve Jobs in Exileis a fine profile of Jobs’ years at NeXT

In the late 1990s, a young enthusiast of Macintosh computers immersed himself in the vibrant world of tech magazines, late-night IRC chats, and the thrill of downloading software, often without necessity. This was a time when dial-up modems and bulletin board systems were fading, giving way to the burgeoning era of the World Wide Web. Curious about the rapid evolution of technology, he sought answers from books, exploring classics like 'Fire in the Valley' and 'Where Wizards Stay Up Late.' Among those influential reads, Geoffrey Cain’s recent work, 'Steve Jobs in Exile,' stands out as an essential addition to anyone’s collection of late 20th-century tech journalism. The narrative details the pivotal moments leading to Silicon Valley’s rise, from the establishment of the ARPANet to the founding of Apple and Jobs’ eventual departure to create NeXT. Cain’s exploration reveals that Jobs’ time at NeXT was not merely a period of exile but a transformative phase that shaped his identity as both an individual and an innovator. The groundbreaking advancements birthed during this era, particularly the NeXTSTEP operating system, have left a lasting impact, influencing what we now recognize as macOS and iOS. As Cain eloquently states, 'NeXTSTEP was Steve’s attempt to make Unix taste sweet.' This period was not just significant for Jobs; it set the stage for the future of technology as we know it today.