Chapter 38: Database

When Steve Jobs learned that William White was back, he naturally came over to try his luck. White Software was truly a cash cow; they even had a French chef in the company. "Man, is your microcomputer database ready?" Jobs asked in disbelief. "It's unstable and still needs a month," William White replied, squeezing his eyes together in a smile. "Darn it, I should've bought you guys out back then." "Ha ha, come on, Jobs, you know I'm not short on cash." "You filthy rich guy." William White could only smile wryly. What was wrong with making his own money? Jobs began to tinker with the software. The launch of a database would undoubtedly broaden the scope of microcomputer applications. "Hey Jobs, got any advice? Criticism? I can take it." "Man, you sure are cocky. Do Oracle's engineers have that kind of skill?" Jobs replied, looking troubled. "Don't dig up any more talent. Which old timer isn't in right mind? Don't mess with that crazy guy." ... Jobs clearly didn't intend to make enemies. He understood very well that this was an issue of concept; software compilation had never been particularly hard. With White Software set to release a new product, Jobs simply couldn't sit still. He had to discuss this with other executives. This was no small matter. "What? Are you sure?" Markkula asked, looking just as conflicted. Databases weren't as simple as spreadsheet software. "They don't rival mainframes, but it depends on what you're using them for. It definitely won't work for financial systems, but it should be fine for small to medium businesses. It's just version 1.0." Although Jobs didn't finish his sentence, Markkula understood. Microcomputer databases weren't widely used; they mostly served as a statement. William White's motives were clear: he aimed to establish his position in the industry. As for Apple, they needed to shed the title of a game console company. Industry giants outwardly sneered at microcomputers, but they were actually preparing to join the fray, just waiting for the right opportunity. For companies like the Big Blue, it wasn't easy to develop a new product. If everything went smoothly, it would take two years. This two-year timeframe was Apple's chance; if they couldn't establish an advantage, that would be it for them. But if they could gain an edge, then everything would be up for grabs. Now, CPUs had made substantial progress. Whether from Intel or Motorola, both had released new models clearly designed for microcomputers, and their performance was impressive. Apple's second-generation machines paled in comparison to mainframes, with a significant gap, especially in pricing. But the next generation would be much closer; their Lisa project was promising. ... Though the big shots dismissed microcomputers, White decided to deliver a blow. No matter how powerful a minicomputer might be, it couldn't hold a candle to larger machines. If you're so skilled, why not go head-to-head with a mainframe or a supercomputer? Once microcomputers had database support, it naturally squeezed the breathing room for minicomputers. he wouldn't believe those guys could stay calm. There were no secrets in Silicon Valley; White's microcomputer database had reached testing status, and there were signs that they would roll out the first test version within two months. Sure enough, the first to get anxious was Oracle. The old fellow had been struggling lately. When he wanted to slam William White, the latter claimed he didn't know the company at all, calling himself a rookie and saying he was just ignorant. No one believed his nonsense, but no one contradicted him either. Larry Ellison couldn't exactly argue back. You can't say, "Buddy, I'm a big shot! How can you not know me?" William White was bad for throwing salt in the wounds. When it came to criticisms of microcomputers, he admitted they weren't great right now, but he was optimistic about the future. If you say his software is bad, he would readily agree that if it weren't for eager customers buying up the existing product, he would have moved on to the next generation already. In truth, hardware performance couldn't keep up with their advancements. William said the company's focus was on a 32-bit system, and the current products were merely compromises. "Now that we have software, our hardware still doesn't have enough power. It's out of place for a pony to pull a big rig! You expect a pony to pull a plane? I just can't do that!" This guy had one tough attitude; he was showing off like it was nobody's business. The new company had plenty of products; after so many years of muddling through, they still looked like a mess. He had the nerve to criticize me? He should really step it up; I haven't even started flexing my muscles yet. Saying the opposite of what's true isn't rare, but doing it all the way through is tough. Those who understand will know, but the onlookers will surely miss the point. They would think, "William White sure is humble, and he can be so low-key." That Oracle guy really didn't know what he was talking about. The same words meant completely different things to insiders and outsiders. That kind of sly criticism went beyond what textbooks taught. Everyone in the IT world knew he was mocking him, but who would dare to refute that? Absolutely no one; that would just make them look foolish. The tech world chose to stay silent in the face of this sharp tongue; it wasn't worth making waves. This guy was much more dangerous than a Silicon Valley nut; don't let his words put you in a real bind. They stayed quiet, but the problem still had to be solved. The 1.0 version wouldn't necessarily solve anything, but the next version might. Everyone could see the progress in CPUs; the gap was undeniably closing. High-end CPUs were pricey, but the quantity wasn't there, and producers weren't fond of such products. No matter how expensive they sold, they wouldn't make a profit. The semiconductor industry was fundamentally capital-intensive; the more you put in, the more you could get out. If you didn't produce much, you wouldn't make money on anything. Though no one really knew how good that so-called database was, as long as it wasn't total junk, many would pay attention. White Software definitely wasn't a no-name company; it was only natural for the industry to take them seriously. The version 1.0 might not amount to much, but the scary part was the direction it pointed towards. The choices were now up to individual decisions. This wasn't good news for Larry Ellison, who had just slammed microcomputers as useless, only to have the tables turned on him. There was no need to mention how furious he was. He could keep attacking and then be ignored, but that would be embarrassing. He truly didn't have the courage to try again. In the end, it all came back to letting the products speak for themselves; relying on age was just asking to be embarrassed. White's Office suite was undoubtedly the hottest thing around; talking about anything else was pointless. You say microcomputers are useless; they now tell you they can use databases. Now it wasn't just White Software; all sorts of software for microcomputers were starting to emerge. This truly was an era of flourishing competition. If they kept talking nonsense, they would soon become synonymous with being outdated. ***** https://www.patreon.com/Sayonara816.