Ever wondered if the tech moguls who shape the world of technology actually use the devices they themselves have a hand in creating?
Do they practice what they preach, or is there a different side to their gadget preferences that we don't get to see? When we look at the products that these billionaires endorse and promote, it sparks a curiosity about their personal preferences—are they using iPhones, Androids, or something else entirely?
Take a moment to imagine the following questions: Does Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, drive a Tesla himself? Or does Jeff Bezos, the man behind Amazon, rely on Alexa to know the weather? What kind of operating system does Bill Gates prefer on his personal devices? And how does Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg, with all his concerns over data privacy, manage his digital life? While most of us may not have access to their private lives, occasionally, a few tech billionaires offer up little snippets of information that give us a peek into the types of devices they use. And let's be honest—if you're an admirer of their work, wouldn't you be curious to know whether you're using the same devices that they rely on every day?
Here’s a look at which smartphones the most powerful tech billionaires are using.
Bill Gates - The Android Advocate (With a Side of iPhone)
Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft and one of the most influential figures in the history of tech, has an interesting take on smartphones. Given the deep integration between Microsoft’s software and the Android operating system, it’s no surprise that Gates primarily uses Android devices. However, true to his commitment to understanding various user experiences, Gates also keeps an iPhone on hand, although it is rumored to be an older model, possibly an iPhone 5S. He reportedly uses the iPhone only to compare it with Android devices, ensuring he stays aware of the differences in user experience between the two. So, while Gates might prefer Android, he acknowledges the importance of knowing how other devices perform.
Jeff Bezos - From Blackberry to Samsung, and Beyond
Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon and the world's richest man (as of the last estimates), has a rather intriguing history with smartphones. Back in 2012, he was spotted using a Blackberry, a brand that was on the decline at the time. Before the launch of Amazon's Fire Phone, which ended up being a commercial failure, Bezos was frequently seen using a Samsung handset. Since then, the specifics of the device he uses now remain somewhat of a mystery. Given his history with Amazon's Fire Phone and his preference for Samsung, it wouldn’t be surprising if he's still a Samsung loyalist, but we’ll never truly know for sure.
Elon Musk - An iPhone Fan (Despite His Public Silence)
Tesla CEO Elon Musk is no stranger to the spotlight, and while he's generally reserved about personal details, he has casually mentioned the use of Apple devices during interviews. While Musk has never explicitly stated that he uses a particular phone brand, it’s clear that he is a fan of the iPhone, frequently referencing it in conversations. As one of the most high-profile tech figures, Musk’s use of an iPhone aligns with his pragmatic approach to technology, focusing on simplicity and functionality. Though it remains unclear exactly which iPhone model he currently owns, it’s safe to say that he’s a loyal customer to Apple’s flagship product.
Evan Spiegel - Snapchat’s iPhone Loyalist
Evan Spiegel, the founder and CEO of Snapchat, is another tech billionaire who appears to be a staunch iPhone user. In interviews, Spiegel has revealed his preference for using an iPhone and shared that he doesn’t use a phone case, demonstrating his care for the device’s design and functionality. His approach to smartphones is quite simple, focusing on the sleek and user-friendly nature of the iPhone. While his specific model might change, his loyalty to Apple remains unwavering.
Mark Zuckerberg - iPhone User with Apple Connections
As the CEO of Facebook (now Meta), Mark Zuckerberg's relationship with Apple is an interesting one, particularly considering that his company competes in various ways with Apple in the realm of apps and services. Despite these differences, Zuckerberg has always been open about his use of the iPhone. In fact, it is widely believed that Zuckerberg receives complimentary iPhones from Apple, thanks to his personal connections with key Apple executives. However, with his influence in the tech world, it begs the question—does Zuckerberg really need these free devices? Regardless, he’s been spotted using the iPhone on several occasions, aligning himself with Apple’s ecosystem.
Tim Cook - A True Apple Enthusiast
Now, when it comes to Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, there’s no mystery about his smartphone of choice. As the head of the company that creates the iPhone, Cook exclusively uses Apple devices. He has often been seen in public with the latest iPhone models, and it’s clear that his loyalty to the brand runs deep. Cook’s use of Apple products serves as a reflection of his confidence in the company’s innovations, as well as his strong belief in the quality and user experience that Apple delivers. It would be quite surprising if Cook ever opted for anything outside the Apple ecosystem, given his role and long-standing association with the company.
Larry Page and Sergey Brin - The Android Pioneers
When it comes to Larry Page and Sergey Brin, the co-founders of Google, their preference is clear—they use Android smartphones. Given that Google developed the Android operating system, it’s no surprise that the two tech giants are passionate advocates for their own product. Sergey Brin, for instance, has been known to use a Google Pixel phone in recent years, a model that reflects Google's commitment to offering a premium Android experience. Larry Page, on the other hand, has a history of using different devices, including a Blackberry and a Nexus phone, before likely transitioning to the Pixel as well. It’s safe to say that Page and Brin have always championed Android as the superior mobile operating system.
Travis Kalanick - Uber’s iPhone User
Travis Kalanick, the co-founder and former CEO of Uber, has frequently been spotted using an iPhone during public appearances. While Kalanick is no longer at the helm of Uber, his choice of smartphone aligns with the preferences of many other Silicon Valley executives. His use of the iPhone is indicative of his alignment with the broader tech ecosystem and the powerful influence Apple has in the mobile market.
Sundar Pichai - The CEO with a Massive Phone Collection
Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Google, has always had an interesting relationship with smartphones. In a 2015 interview, Pichai mentioned that he owns 20-30 smartphones at home, likely all from Google’s lineup. Given his long-standing association with Google, it’s no surprise that Pichai would have a variety of devices, especially Android models. His comments about privacy also indicate a preference for devices that align with his concerns about security. Pichai’s own phone collection likely includes several models from the Google Pixel line, which showcase the best features of Android.
The Varied Smartphone Choices of Tech Billionaires
While tech billionaires may influence the devices and ecosystems that shape the future of technology, their personal choices are as diverse as their professional achievements. From Bill Gates’ balanced use of both Android and iPhone to Sundar Pichai’s ever-expanding phone collection, it’s clear that the tech giants themselves don’t always stick to one brand or operating system. Whether it’s the iPhone's user-friendly interface, Android’s customization, or the cutting-edge features of their own devices, these tech moguls understand the nuances of the devices they champion. Ultimately, their choices reflect their personal preferences, shaped by their experiences and priorities as leaders in the tech world.
