MC.75: Jony Ive and AI, beauty over function

Hey everyone,

In a world of breakneck innovation and AI-generated everything, Jony Ive's recent talk at the Stripe conference offers a much-needed moment of reflection. The legendary former Apple design chief reminds us of principles that become even more critical as AI transforms creation itself.

The Power of Thoughtful Words

Ive begins by emphasizing the importance of carefully chosen words. In an era where content can be generated with a simple prompt, taking time to reflect on language isn't just beneficial—it's essential. This deliberate approach stands in stark contrast to our increasingly automated world where text is constantly being remixed, regenerated, and as Ive might say, "vomited out."

Care Translates to Human Connection

One of Ive's most compelling points comes from an unexpected example: the cables in Apple product boxes. The meticulous attention paid to this single-use experience—removing cables from packaging—demonstrates something profound. When creators invest care and effort into their work, users feel it. This human touch communicates that "we take care of each other," creating connections that transcend mere functionality.

The False Dichotomy of Function vs. Beauty

When asked to choose between functionality and beauty, Ive reframes the question entirely: things that don't work are fundamentally ugly. This perspective is particularly relevant to today's AI landscape, where we're still in discovery mode—exploring possibilities while confronting limitations.

The tension is palpable. When AI works, it feels magical. When it fails, the frustration is intense. This creates what Ive might call "ugliness" in our experience. As creators of AI software, we bear the responsibility to bring care to the details, even when moving quickly.

Our Greater Responsibility in the AI Era

As AI increasingly assists in creation—from code to 3D objects, architecture, and beyond—our human responsibility actually grows rather than diminishes. The first machine-generated output can't be taken at face value. We must shape, guide, and refine what AI produces, bringing the sensitivity and judgment that machines fundamentally lack.

In a world where everything becomes clonable, reproducible, and instantly generated, Ive's message resonates even more powerfully: what makes creation meaningful is the human spirit, intention, and care invested in it.

Beyond the Disposable

Without this human element—the soul, spirit, and deep intention behind creation—our AI-assisted work risks becoming merely disposable. Just another iteration among thousands, remixed and regurgitated without purpose or meaning.

As AI makes creation easier and faster, our challenge isn't technical mastery but maintaining the human touch that distinguishes exceptional work from the merely adequate. The thoughtfulness, care, and love we bring to our creations will ultimately determine whether they resonate or are quickly forgotten.

In this AI-accelerated landscape, Ive's wisdom offers a crucial reminder: the most valuable aspects of creation remain distinctly human. Our sensitivity, intention, and care for those who will use what we build can never be automated away.

Cheers, Olivier

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