Apple pippin failed where xbox succeeded
Apple Pippin was going to be a revolutionary entertainment hub, but it failed. Several years later, Xbox launched with a similar vision and last year the brand generated over $7 billion.
The Pippin's generic grey, boxy design didn't capture an exciting gaming aesthetic like the original PlayStation or other consoles at the time. It could easily have been mistaken for a generic VCR or office appliance.
Its controller, oddly elongated with a central trackball, felt unfamiliar and likely hindered gameplay. Pippin was also marketed as both a gaming console and a network computer, which blurred its identity. This may have confused potential buyers who ultimately purchased a Nintendo 64 instead.
In contrast, the original Xbox exuded power with its bold green "X" and oversized controller. The controller had a clearer interface layout, comfortable contours and modern color choices. This was unapologetically a gaming console that just so happened to be an entertainment hub. Playing DVDs, music and connecting to the internet were valuable additional features, but were not primary selling points.
Apple's attempt at a multipurpose entertainment hub lacked the design language and targeted user experience that resonated with gamers. While Xbox wasn't the first entertainment hub concept, its success demonstrates the power of a focused identity, expressed through clear visual cues and intuitive design choices that cater to the target audience.
