In this episode of Wild Ducks, Jerry reconnects with his first programming teacher, Brent Hailpern, to explore how a simple course on Karel the Robot sparked a lifelong passion for software. They reflect on the early days at IBM’s TJ Watson Research Center, the art of programming, and today’s rise of AI code assistants. Join them for a thoughtful and lively discussion on how the tools may change, but the core discipline of coding endures.

In part two of this conversation, host Jerry Cuomo continues his discussion with Ken Kocienda, creator of iPhone’s autocorrect and author of Creative Selection. Ken reflects on his post-Apple career, including roles at Postmates, Airbnb, and co-founding his AI company, Infactory. He explores making AI-powered tools more transparent and enterprise-ready while sharing his vision for the future of human-computer interaction.

Key Takeaways:

1. AI’s next frontier lies in enterprise applications beyond consumer chatbots.
2. Transparent AI models can improve reliability and decision-making.
3. The future includes seamless, conversational interfaces for businesses and individuals alike.

In part one of this two-part conversation, host Jerry Cuomo talks with Ken Kocienda, former Apple software engineer and author of Creative Selection: Inside Apple's Design Process During the Golden Age of Steve Jobs. Ken shares the backstory of creating the iPhone’s autocorrect feature and working closely with Steve Jobs. He reflects on the significance of blending design and technology to shape user experiences, offering insights into Apple’s innovation culture that still resonates in today’s tech landscape.

Key Takeaways:

1. Creating iPhone autocorrect required blending design with tech for seamless typing.
2. Apple’s innovation culture emphasized decisive, user-focused development.
3. Working with Steve Jobs meant delivering fast, clear, and impactful solutions.