Bill Gates has rarely shown emotional weakness in public. But the software czar grew emotional as he recalled visiting Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) co-founder Steve Jobs in May 2011 when Jobs was seriously ill. During his interview with Charlie Rose of CBS’ 60 Minutes, the Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) chairman applauded Jobs and his sense of design. Gates recalled that Steve Jobs was still enthusiastic about the future of technology despite his deteriorating health.
Jobs’ Sense Of Design
When Charlie Rose asked Gates what one thing he wished to have that Jobs had, the Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) co-founder readily admitted that it was Steve Jobs’ sense of design. With little engineering background, Jobs’ sense of design led to the creation of phenomenal products, Gates added. Moreover, Bill Gates said that Jobs had an amazing and intuitive sense for marketing.
One of the world’s greatest philanthropists welled up while describing his last conversation with Jobs, which he called a “forward looking” talk. The two talked about their families, what they had learned in their respective lives and what more technological advancements can do for the world. Steve Jobs also showed him his new boat.
Bill Gates Rivalry & Friendship
The two were bitter rivals, taking potshots at each other throughout their careers. Taking a dig at Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT), Steve Jobs once said the software giant had “no taste.” But they have worked together at times and appreciated each other’s work. Bill Gates seem to have forgotten the days of rivalry.
The billionaire said during his interview that, in a sense, they grew up together and they both achieved every fantasy they had about technology. Gates admitted that Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) got tablets right, while his company couldn’t. That’s a bit surprising because last week, Bill Gates had criticized iPads, saying that people using tablets were frustrated because they don’t have the Office suite, and can’t type or create documents.
His interview was more personal than corporate. Bill Gates’ words reflected that the sense of personal rivalry was gone, the man has passed away, and only memories remain.
