The decision by both Apple and Microsoft to bypass the number 9 in their product naming conventions, specifically with the iPhone and Windows operating system, sparked curiosity. This article delves into the possible explanations behind this unusual move, examining both technical considerations and branding strategies.
For Windows, a key factor was compatibility with legacy software. Older applications, written for earlier Windows versions, sometimes checked the operating system’s version string for “Windows 9” to ensure compatibility with Windows 95 or 98. Introducing a “Windows 9” could have confused these older applications, leading to significant compatibility issues and software malfunctions.
Beyond technical limitations, Microsoft also aimed to signal a complete reinvention with the launch of Windows 10. The company wanted to make a clear break from the past. The shift to Windows 10 allowed Microsoft to position the new OS as a revolutionary leap forward, giving them a chance to refresh their brand identity and reshape public perception.
Apple’s strategic decision to skip iPhone 9 and release the iPhone X in 2017 carried symbolic significance. The “X” was chosen to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the iPhone. Apple capitalized on this milestone in marketing campaigns, using it to highlight the product’s significance and the evolution of the iPhone line.
By bypassing iPhone 9, Apple presented the iPhone X not just as an incremental upgrade, but as a radical redesign. The iPhone X introduced advanced features like a bezel-less OLED display and Face ID facial recognition. This innovative design repositioned the iPhone as a cutting-edge device, illustrating the technological strides Apple had achieved rather than simply offering another minor update.
The fact that two major tech manufacturers omitted the number 9 has led to speculation. However, the choice was an isolated occurrence and the number 9 doesn’t hold any negative connotations for tech companies.