<a href="https://twitter.com/joannastern" target="_blank">WSJ’s Joanna Stern</a>
WWDC 2015 may be ‘the epicenter of change’ as the announcement’s tagline presented, but it will not be the epicenter of selfie sticks if Apple has anything to say about it. Included in the WWDC 2015 Attendance Policy is a rule that stands out as a sign of the times: no selfie sticks.
After requesting that no one take any audio or audiovisual recordings (sorry Shot on iPhone 6 campaign … wait really?!), Apple drops an explicit ‘no selfie stick’ bombshell on everyone:
In addition, you may not use selfie sticks or similar monopods within Moscone West or Yerba Buena Gardens.
The section also bans “wearable recording devices” from Moscone West where the conference is held — does the Apple Watch with its microphone on your wrist classify? This line likely has another target in mind: the WWDC rebel wearing Google Glass.
While the selfie stick rule may be an extension of a Yerba Bueno policy, it’s likely for your own good. No one’s view gets obstructed by poles, no one’s head gets whacked by your iPhone 6 Plus on a rod, and you don’t have to risk the temptation of whipping yours out in public. Still too tempted to resist? Check out our roundup of the best selfie sticks for iPhone 5, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus on 9to5Toys.
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Very “accepting” Apple of other peoples lifestyles! Maybe I LOVE taking pictures with selfie sticks, who is Apple to say what I do can with what I love. Guess Apples tolerance only extends to a bakeries choice to bake cakes for weddings Apple approves of
Go take them somewhere else then?
God, you must be a blast at family gatherings.
“Chris, pass the turkey please.”
“You mean like the way Apple passed on a chance to support traditional marriage?? I didn’t realize you had sided with them on the destruction of family values!” *sticks face in gravy boat and blows bubbles*
I’m going to take that stick and beat you with it until you promise never to use it again.
They have the rule out of consideration and safety of other audiences who might get their view blocked by people taking selfies. It’s the same reason why no-one wants to go to a concert only for the person in front to whip out an iPad to record video and block the view for everyone behind them.
lol
You know what, I respect apples decision here. Selfie sticks are the work of the devil.
I don’t believe in “the devil” and I don’t mind selfie sticks “in principle”, but it seems eminently practical to disallow them in crowded venues. So, I too think Apple’s decision is right.
Most rational post here.
Great move. I don’t like those sticks (and droids as well).
I’d prefer someone holding their camera up high on a “selfie stick” which would obstruct my view less than the person in front just holding it up over their head in their hands. That said, if you aren’t allowed to record either way it shouldn’t make a difference anyway.
Apple’s conference. Apple’s choice. People got by just fine without them before.
selfie sticks are the dumbest invention ever! They should be banned everywhere! It just looks extremely silly and idiotic pointing a stick in the air!
A shame so much resources and energy are wasted to produce and sell them.
People are clearly forgetting that the OG Selfie Stick is still completely acceptable. It’s called “Talk to a stranger and ask them to snap a photo of you.” Isn’t the point of the Apple Watch to encourage people to get their noses out of their phones and in to the world around them? What better way than striking up a conversation with a stranger whilst hoverhanding Tim Cook or Angela Ahrendts.
I think it is a good idea that Apple is banning selfie sticks at WWDC. There is a time and place for everything and people’s views should not be impeded due to someone using a selfie stick.
BestSelfieStick.net