While Bill Gates is renowned for shaping the tech world as the co-founder of Microsoft, even he had moments of envy, particularly when it came to his late business rival, Steve Jobs. In a 2020 interview on the Armchair Expert podcast, Gates expressed his profound admiration for Jobs, particularly highlighting his natural charisma.
“He was such a wizard at over-motivating people,” Gates said, adding, “I was a minor wizard, so I couldn’t fall under his spells, but I could see him casting the spells.” Gates admitted he was “so jealous” of Jobs’ ability to mesmerize people, a quality he saw as key to Jobs’ leadership success.
This admiration went beyond mere personality traits. Gates referred to Jobs as a “genius,” particularly noting his ability to steer Apple back from the brink in the late ‘90s. Apple had struggled significantly before Jobs’ return in 1997, and Gates was deeply impressed with the turnaround that followed. “And there’s no chance in hell it happens without him,” he said. “No one else can do what he did there.”
Despite their well-known business rivalry, Gates has consistently praised Jobs’ accomplishments, often crediting him for Apple’s revival. In his own words, Gates recognizes his shortcomings, particularly when it comes to being socially adept. Where Jobs could cast spells over a room, Gates acknowledged that public speaking was something he had to work hard at.
Although their relationship had its ups and downs, their mutual respect was clear. While Microsoft and Apple were competitors, Gates wasn’t out to eliminate or crush Apple – in fact, he invested in the company. In 1997, Apple was on the verge of bankruptcy, and Gates stepped in with a $150 million investment to save the company.
The two appeared at the 2007 D5 tech conference, where Jobs recalled, “Apple was in very serious trouble. Apple was very weak and so I called Bill up and we tried to patch things up.”
Gates also shared that the two spent hours reminiscing during their final meeting before Jobs passed away. Afterward, Gates wrote Jobs a letter, praising his achievements and reflecting on their unique relationship. In an interview with The Telegraph, Gates recalled telling Jobs to “feel great about what he had done and the company he had built.” He also mentioned writing about Jobs’ kids, whom he had gotten to know over the years.
While their rivalry is widely known, Gates’ comments highlight his deep respect for Jobs, particularly his extraordinary ability to inspire others. Jobs’ influence extended beyond Apple – it left a mark on everyone who crossed his path, even his competitors. The feeling was mutual. After Jobs passed, Gates received a call from Jobs’ wife, Laurene, who shared that Jobs had appreciated the letter and kept it by his bedside, according to CBS News.
The story of Bill Gates’ envy for Steve Jobs is not simply a tale of professional rivalry, but a testament to the deep respect and admiration that can exist between even the most fierce competitors. It’s a story that underscores the lasting impact of leadership, charisma, and the ability to inspire, qualities that Steve Jobs possessed in abundance.