Why didn’t Apple release an iPhone 9, and why didn’t Microsoft launch a Windows 9? This article investigates the reasons behind these naming choices, looking into both technical and strategic considerations.
In the case of Windows, one factor was legacy software. Some older applications were designed to check for “Windows 9” in the operating system’s version string, assuming compatibility with Windows 95 or 98. Launching a new operating system called Windows 9 could have caused compatibility problems for these applications.
Beyond this, Microsoft aimed to signal a fresh start with Windows 10. The company aimed to present the new operating system as a significant advancement. This strategic move offered an opportunity to reshape public perception of the brand.
Apple’s decision to skip the iPhone 9 and go directly to iPhone X in 2017 was also strategic. The “X” marked the 10th anniversary of the iPhone, an event that was a central theme in marketing. The iPhone X was a major redesign, as the company wanted to highlight.
The iPhone X introduced new features like a bezel-less OLED display and Face ID. This marked a significant technological advancement. By skipping the iPhone 9, Apple positioned the iPhone X as a forward-thinking device. These omissions were not related to any negative significance of the number 9, and were specific decisions made by each company.