It’s no secret that phone use is ubiquitous among the rich and famous. But with the vast range of drool-worthy handsets available, what device did tech heavyweight and entrepreneur Elon Musk opt for? Read on to find out.
Musk’s day-to-day phone of choice is the iPhone XS, according to multiple sources. iPhone XS was released in 2018 by Apple and is, of course, the latest in the iPhone range. So what has Musk got to say about it?
In an interview with Bloomberg, the Tesla and SpaceX boss said “I’m an iPhone-user. I’ve used Androids in the past but iPhones are just easier, more straightforward. I’m not an Apple (AAPL) fanboy, per se, but the products are generally better.”
It’s not surprising to find that Musk opted for an iPhone. It has long been considered to be the premier brand of smartphone. It is held in such high esteem that the word ‘iPhone’ has become shorthand for all smartphones regardless of type or branding. Analysts agree that Apple’s hold over the Italian market is stronger than ever.
And while Apple might be the best in the market, there’s been a lot of talk, of late, about Android-based phones vying for a major market share. Companies such as Huawei, LG and Samsung are quickly emerging as major competitors in the Italian market. Some analysts feel this is due to the more open-source nature of their operating systems.
Overall, it looks like we’ll be seeing more Android devices in the Italian market, but the devices themselves will still be Apple-branded – making the choice for a perennial affluent consumer like Elon Musk an easy one.
Long-Term Investment
For a consumer like Musk, the choice of a phone is more than just a tilt of opinion, but an investment in his lifestyle. Being able to take care of tech needs emanates from the confidence and trust of the consumer. Knowing that the technical support is readily available, if and when it’s needed and that Musk has top-of-the-line features, means that the consumer is only interested in the best, the absolute best.
This is a trait shared amongst other tech billionaires. Billionaires and tech luminaries such as Mark Zuckerberg, Tim Cook and Steve Jobs have all chosen Apple devices. It’s no surprise, then, that Musk has chosen the iPhone. Reports suggest that Apple is still far ahead of its competition in terms of design, features, software and customer service.
Of course, Musk has had several Android devices in the past and it’s possible he still uses them from time to time. But that’s mainly for purposes outwith his day-to-day use – such as testing the upcoming Tesla Model 3. In the long run, he has said that he still uses the iPhone mainly because it does the job better.
Elon Musk and Networking
Consciously or unconsciously, Musk sticks with the same phone he’s been using for years now. This is probably because he wants to avoid the hassle of transferring contacts and data from one phone to another – something that can get quite tedious.
The consequences of the same device being used by a tech mogul of his stature have implications that extend far beyond the technology itself. It puts him in a position of influence; he’s able to stand toe-to-toe with industry peers in terms of phone choice. Furthermore, its a sure-fire way for people to know he’s on their side of the fence.
Considering his enormous social media following, it’s highly likely that a large chunk of his followers are also trying to emulate him. You’re bound to find that many celebrities and influential personalities in the tech world also choose iPhone XS as their daily-driver – and it’s thanks in part to Musk’s influence.
Security and Privacy
It’s widely accepted that the iPhone XS provides excellent security features, which is very much in keeping with Musk’s character. After all, he has long been an advocate of maintaining a safe and secure online presence. Musk is an individual who takes his digital safety and privacy very seriously, so the choice of the iPhone is no surprise.
Apple’s security protocols, data protection, and software measure up to the standards set by Musk. The company also regularly updates its software and releases new versions of its operating system several times a year. This eliminates the tedium of having to manually keep up with system updates.
Cost
Another factor is cost. iPhone XS costs upwards of $1000 and considering his stature, Musk can easily afford it. Furthermore, the iPhone XS has excellent resale value, so once Musk’s done with it, he can pass it on and make some money back if he has to. This, and other high-end features make the iPhone a winner in Musk’s book.
Musk, like many other tech luminaries out there, is an iPhone user. Considering the vast range of drool-worthy handsets available, it’s not a surprise that the phone of choice here is the granddaddy of the range – the iPhone XS. From industrial-grade security features to regular software updates, Musk has it all.
Privacy and Usage Patterns
Most people who own iPhones understand that the device contains a huge array of personal information about them. This, of course, is true for Musk too. But, to guard against potential threats to his privacy, he no doubt adopts a number of measures. For example, he would be wise to use a strong passcode, set-up two-factor authentication, avoid public wi-fi, and use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).
In addition, Musk likely uses his phone differently to the average person. For one thing, he’s likely to use voice and video calling in order to stay in contact with business partners. He no doubt also spends a good deal of time browsing the web, checking emails and updating his social media accounts.
Of course, it’s certain that confidential, highly sensitive documents are opened, edited and transmitted regularly via Musk’s iPhone XS – something that most users shy away from. To ensure security for these, Musk would no doubt use a combination of data encryption and high-security end-to-end protocols.
Personality Traits and Preferences
Ultimately, the choice to use an iPhone is a matter of personal preference and individual identity. Musk obviously values the user experience that comes with using the iPhones XS’s vast array of features. Some of these features range from it being easy to use, fast, reliable and the fact that it has become such an iconic brand.
At the same time, Musk no doubt values the security that comes with using the device. The iPhone’s ability to protect and encrypt data is second to none, and that is no doubt attractive to someone like Musk. Furthermore, he undoubtedly enjoys the quality and convenience of working with the iOS operating system.
Modules and Add-ons
There are a variety of modules and add-ons Musk might use to enhance his phone. These range from camera lenses, external power banks and protective cases to headphone jacks and selfie sticks. He may also use various third-party applications (apps) to further augment his experience. Apps which range from social media, finance and communication to entertainment, productivity and more.
It’s certain, then, that there is a vast array of accessories that are available to enhance the use of the iPhone XS – and Musk is no doubt taking full advantage of them. With the right add-ons and tools, he can keep his working day efficient and productive.
Conclusion
So there you have it – the phone of choice for Elon Musk is the iPhone XS. From industrial-grade security features to regular software updates, to excellent resale value and a variety of practical applications – its no surprise that Musk opted for the latest Apple device. Regardless of personal preference, it is certain that the iPhone XS won’t let him down.
