What happened with me and Apple

I've been reviewing tech on YouTube for over a decade now, and a lot has happened since those early days on YouTube. Today I'm sharing the story that few know - here's the story of why I no longer attend Apple keynotes or get access to review devices.

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[jonlakers]

Man, really appreciate the comments and support around this video. I sat on this story for so long, it feels great to get it out. One thing I ask is, don't evaluate any other content creators through the lens of this story. Everyone has their own experiences, these are just mine.

[akapeegly]

i remember every single day after school as a 14 year old, i would open technobuffalo just to see new tech, even at school! crazy to think u were struggling to get your hands on product yet we never lacked quality content, and tbh im so greatful for the childhood u gave me

[snazzy]

Pretty bananas but entirely unsurprising. I’ve heard from multiple friends about my blacklisted status without ever having spoken to anyone at Apple ever.

[dannywinget]

Did you get another phone call after THIS video went live? 🤣

[ZAKtalksTECH]

I'm not really surprised at how you were treated. Apple likes to control the narrative. Always has. I'm glad you shared this story. Makes you more trustworthy, in my opinion.

[furn]

You know you are fair an unbiased when a company throws a tantrum because you were being honest.

[geraldpolymath]

Now you know why iJustine always gets stuff because she just smiles and tells you how great the device is.

[CreatedTech]

I've never understood why Apple does this. They send early-access devices to "hand-picked" channels that almost always give positive reviews. But, just 12 hours later the products are released to the public anyway, and the "blacklisted" channels upload tear-down videos or showcase major issues/negative things etc. I really wish Apple would just send products out to everyone and let them say or do whatever they want.

From a consumer's point of view, I don't trust reviews from those who get the early access products. They clearly fit into Apple's agenda which is why they are sent the products in the first place.

Anyway, sucks that this happened to you. I remember watching Apple content on this channel way back in the early 2010s. Although, as you said in the video, it's likely a blessing in disguise because you can say whatever you want about Apple now!

[b]

Makes sense as to why so many tech YouTubers suck up to apple and won't say anything bad about them. Pretty interesting story.

[AuthenTech]

We appreciate the transparency and honesty. It’s very unfortunate when these companies think they have more control than they actually do.

[garciabyron]

While I agree that having a relationship with a manufactures probably makes thing easier, in the end, being true and honest about your content is more important. Especially to you audience. Been watching you since the jon4lakers days and I’ll probably keep watching until you stop making videos

[einsp]

Been following you from the beginning and I've always respected what you do and I respect you even more now. You should never ever let a company dictate what you do and you've always stayed true to what you do.

[NinjaSynFrey]

Almost any popular review of an Apple product is always treated with positive responses. This is one of the reasons I actively avoid any videos or articles that talk about Apple from popular channels or news outlet. It creates this narrative for consumers that Apple does everything absolutely perfect and do no wrong. Criticizing their product makes them look bad and they obviously don’t want people to ruin this “premium” image they’ve established. Glad that you’ve stood your ground Jon. Thanks for sharing your story!

[mrkring]

Looks like mkbhd would never call out Apple to lose his revenue. I hate when someone refers to his videos he's the worst tech youtuber out.

[WHATSINSIDEFAMILY]

Thanks for sharing. Yes start working on that book! Would love to hear the BTS of this crazy job that is YouTubers.

[klrktsr]

While I consider myself an Apple “fanboy”, I realize how terrible this company can be if it comes to PR. Absolutely not acceptable. Thanks for sharing this.

[zarndt]

Kinda sad to see that Apple wanted to control the Narrative, especially when the Company preaches individuality and being yourself. I’m happy you were able to rise above the immaturity they showed. Love your content.

[yashinisuki]

The worst thing about Apple is that most of the people that use their products are also part of this issue. Recently I have switched over to Google Pixel 6 after using an iPhone since 3GS and the most surprising thing about the system change was amount of rude and mocking up comments from my co-workers and friends that own an iPhone. This has really opened up my eyes and made me realise how brainwashed most of the people that only use Apple products are. How can someone be offended because someone has purchased Android phone instead of iPhone? Just unbelievable.

[bjs]

Being blacklisted by Apple is a badge of honor. Back when Steve Jobs was alive Leo Laporte got blacklisted for live streaming an event with his laptop. As I recall he wasn’t even inside the building but when Apple found out he never got invited to an event again.

[johnevoice]

Who can be surprised? I’m glad it worked out best for you. This was your experience with your personal phones; no freebies from Apple. Of course they’re going to strike out at you. That’s what bullies do. The same thing is happening with honest reviewers of Rivian, Lucid and other EV startups. We need honest reviews from people with integrity to offset the companies that seem to have lost their integrity (at times). Thanks John - keep up the great work. I’m sure it’s not easy.