The absence of an iPhone 9 and a Windows 9 has raised questions about the rationale behind these naming choices. This article explores the motivations, examining technical hurdles and marketing strategies that influenced Apple and Microsoft’s decisions.
One reason Microsoft skipped Windows 9 relates to software compatibility. Older programs, designed for legacy Windows systems, often utilized the Windows version string to determine compatibility. Some programs checked for “Windows 9” to identify compatibility with Windows 95 or 98. Launching a new OS called Windows 9 could have potentially caused these older applications to misinterpret the operating environment, resulting in severe compatibility problems.
Furthermore, Microsoft’s branding played a crucial role. The company decided to make a complete break from the past with Windows 10. The new name allowed Microsoft to present it as a revolutionary and forward-thinking OS. This provided a chance to redefine their brand identity and positively influence public perception.
Apple’s move to iPhone X was a bold strategy in 2017. It was intended to mark the 10th anniversary of the iPhone. The “X” was a symbolic choice that Apple used in its marketing campaigns to underscore the milestone and the significance of the new product.
By forgoing the iPhone 9, Apple emphasized the iPhone X as a substantial redesign. This model featured innovations like an OLED display and Face ID technology. This redesign allowed Apple to position the iPhone as a forward-thinking device, highlighting the technological advancements it had achieved.
Despite these omissions, the number 9 has no specific significance for tech companies, and these instances were coincidental.