Apple Fans Have Been Accused of Being “Sheeple”. Are People Hating on Brand Loyalty?

In a recent update to the Mirriam-Webster Dictionary, the word “sheeple” was included with examples.  One such example included people who use Apple products.  So I ask the question – is that a fair assessment? The definition explains that “sheeple” are “people who are docile, compliant, or easily influenced”, or more easily explained – like sheep.  But where is the direct correlation to Apple fans?  Apple, as we all know, has been around for years.  But it wasn’t until the early 2000s that they really made a play for the market.  So are they making a product that everyone wants?  Or are non-Apple users just being haters?

I have had one or more Apple device for the majority of my adult life.  From my first iPod, to a former Macbook (rest in peace), to several iPhones, iPads and now an Apple Watch.  But I’m not necessarily taking the side of Apple fans.  I simply want to explore this from an objective perspective.  The term sheeple essentially says that you are following the crowd.  That you are buying into an idea, a product or more specifically a brand in this case.  And I would argue that in this case, people probably are.  But what’s wrong with brand loyalty?  My father, has been a die hard Ford man his entire life.  There were a few times that he went out on a limb and purchased a different type of vehicle and he hated every minute of it.  So how is that different?

I would argue that people don’t see Apple fans as being brand loyal.  But as buying into a lifestyle.  And what’s wrong with that?  In my opinion, there aren’t that many options out there when it comes to phones, as far as brands go.  So you make a choice and for the most part you end up sticking with it for quite some time.  Right? I think the issue that people have with Apple is the inter-connectivity between devices.  I’ve talked about this in other posts, but for me it makes a difference.  That’s not to say that I don’t like other products, but I like what they have to offer.  And honestly, is that such a bad thing?  Apple seems to have a forward way of thinking about their products and devices.  Which, I think, does them well.

But you could make the argument for Google products as well.  There are so many Google products that I use and love.  And I use them on my Apple devices!  (insert shock face)  So how is Google any different from Apple?  In my opinion, they aren’t.  Well, I shouldn’t say that.  I think they are both forward thinking.  They both look forward and try to come up with a way to connect all their products and devices.  And again, that’s far from a bad thing.  The difference though, is that Google makes their products available on any platform.  Whereas if it’s part of an Apple device, it’s only available for Apple.  And maybe that’s where the sheeple terms comes from?

The idea that everyone who supports Apple will always go out and get the latest device might be a bit ludicrous.  Especially when we think about the recent Samsung sales as a result of the Galaxy S8.  Which makes me wonder how you can make the conclusion that Apple supporters are sheeple?  You could make that argument about anyone who goes out and buys the latest and greatest in technology.  That’s the way of the world though.  Why would you keep a device for several years, if it’s no longer serving your purpose?  I know lots of guys who are constantly upgrading their PC’s just so they can have the latest and greatest.  But they’re not considered sheeple?

I honestly think that there are two camps in this world – people who love Apple, and people who hate Apple.  And unfortunately, the haters are louder when it comes to this latest media bit.  This is not to say that I’m offended.  Far from it.  Everyone is entitled to their own opinions and that is what makes our society great.  I do however, have a problem with being painted with a single brush.  Apple has given us some amazing products over the last couple of years, and I’m not sure there is much by the way of competition right now.  But that’s just my opinion!