NeXT, Objective-C, and contrasting histories
Bryan Cantrill and Adam Leventhal of Oxide Computer Company discuss the history of NeXT and Sun Microsystems, contrasting Steve Jobs' proprietary, hardware-focused approach with Sun's open, interoperable strategy. They analyze the NeXTcube's industrial design, its failure to compete technically, and the company's eventual pivot to software after being acquired by Apple. The conversation also explores the technical legacy of Objective-C, its performance limitations, and its role in shaping modern Apple development practices.