Chapter 1: The Illusion of Seamless Technology

In earlier days, Apple dominated the narrative of technology with the phrase "It just works!" However, this assertion no longer holds true. Even Apple's own products can falter unexpectedly. Take, for instance, the Reminders app, which can be a source of frustration when used across multiple iOS devices and MacOS. As Apple increasingly integrates cloud technology to connect its devices and applications, the level of control that once characterized the user experience under Steve Jobs has diminished, leading to inconsistencies.

Furthermore, a recent news story highlighted a Tesla in auto-drive mode colliding with a stationary patrol car. This incident underscores the reliance of such vehicles on software, electrical systems, and, importantly, a stable network. During the severe winter storm in Texas, those relying on electric cars faced significant challenges due to grid failures. If a software glitch occurs, it often reveals itself in real-world scenarios, sometimes with dire consequences.

While I personally refrain from using Android devices due to my distrust of Google, I also avoid PCs. Despite their ability to run various operating systems like Windows or Ubuntu, the diverse origins of hardware components can lead to integration issues and inefficiencies. My experience with Windows is limited to using Parallels on my Mac for a specific business application, TurboTax Business, which is exclusively designed for Windows.

The intricate nature of technology hinges upon dependencies; each component is reliant on the others. For example, an iPhone 12 Plus becomes merely a high-end iPod if the GPE Network is slow, if a reliable cell tower is out of reach, or if the battery is depleted. High-performance CPUs are rendered ineffective if the RAM bus fails to manage the necessary throughput or if cooling systems are inadequate, turning powerful machines into ineffective space heaters.

For a considerable period, the primary limitation has been the network itself. All technology relies on dependable and consistent network protocols for device connectivity and communication. When these networks fail, the once-controlled and predictable realm of technology transforms into a source of frustration, mirroring the challenges we face in our daily lives.

The first video, "Todd Howard Song — It Just Works," humorously captures the essence of the "It just works" mantra, showcasing its implications in the tech world.

The second video titled "It Just Works" further explores the expectations versus reality of modern technology, emphasizing the growing complexities in our tech-driven lives.

Chapter 2: The Network Dependency Dilemma

As technology continues to evolve, the underlying network infrastructure remains a critical concern. This dependence on reliable communication channels often leads to challenges that users are unprepared for. When the network falters, so does the experience, making it clear that the promise of seamless technology is increasingly difficult to achieve.