The One Device

by Brian Merchant
The One Device cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Technology and Innovation
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Waterstones
Paperback • £12.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 2690
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781473542549
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2017-06-22
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

The One Device delves into the secret history of the iPhone, revealing how it transformed from a simple communication tool into the most profitable product in the world. Veteran technology journalist Brian Merchant takes readers on a journey from the heart of Apple's headquarters to the far corners of the globe, exploring the innovative technologies and the human stories behind the iPhone's creation. This book is not just a story about a device; it's an anthropology of the modern age, offering an unprecedented view into one of the most secretive companies in history. Through exclusive interviews with engineers, inventors, and developers, Merchant provides a first-hand look at the design and engineering genius that went into the iPhone. The book also examines the broader implications of the iPhone's success, from its environmental impact to its role in shaping contemporary culture. The One Device is a comprehensive and captivating account of the invention that changed everything.

Reviews
Blinkist · 2025-10-16
captivating 4.20

The book is praised for its intriguing behind-the-scenes look at the tech industry and the vibrant personalities involved in the iPhone's creation.

Blinkist's review emphasizes how 'The One Device' offers an intriguing behind-the-scenes look at the tech industry, highlighting the vibrant personalities involved in the making of the iPhone. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to unveil the stories of those who contributed to the iPhone's development, providing a unique perspective on the tech industry. They find the book to be a captivating read that sheds light on the human element behind one of the most significant technological innovations of our time.

Quick quotes

    Unveiling the stories of vibrant personalities involved in the making of the iPhone.

    The book offers an intriguing behind-the-scenes look at the tech industry.

    It is a captivating read that sheds light on the human element behind the iPhone's creation.

The Guardian · 2017-06-29
insightful 4.00

The book is praised for its surprising details and insightful exploration of the iPhone's societal impact. It is described as a thoughtful examination of the technology's significance.

The reviewer from The Guardian highlights how 'The One Device' is packed with surprising details that shed light on the iPhone's transformative impact on society. They appreciate the book's depth in exploring what such technology truly signifies, making it a compelling read for those interested in the intersection of technology and culture. The reviewer also notes that the book goes beyond the basic narrative of the iPhone's creation, offering a nuanced perspective on its global and historical context.

Quick quotes

    Full of surprising details, this study delves into what society-transforming technology really signifies.

    The book offers a thoughtful examination of the iPhone's impact on our lives.

    It is a compelling read for those interested in the intersection of technology and culture.

USA Today · 2017-06-19
informative 3.80

The book is noted for its focus on Apple's secrecy and its broader exploration of the iPhone's development. It is seen as an engaging and informative read.

In this review, the focus is on how 'The One Device' delves into Apple's penchant for secrecy, which is already widely known, but expands the narrative to include the broader story of the iPhone's development. The reviewer finds the book engaging and informative, appreciating the depth of research and the insights provided into the technological and business breakthroughs that led to the iPhone. They highlight the book's ability to capture the global scope and historical significance of the iPhone's creation.

Quick quotes

    Merchant's book dwells on Apple's penchant for secrecy and expands beyond the basic story of the iPhone's development.

    It is an engaging and informative read that captures the global scope of the iPhone's creation.

    The book offers a deeper understanding of the technological and business breakthroughs behind the iPhone.

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