Happy International Macintosh Computer Day 2023! It’s hard to believe it’s been almost 40 years since Steve Jobs introduced the first Macintosh computer back on January 24th, 1984. Now affectionately known as “Macs” and “Macbooks,” we have an entire line of personal computers manufactured by Apple Inc. including desktop and laptop models.
Personal computers today look a whole lot different compared to computers 40 years ago! So, as we celebrate International Macintosh Computer Day, let’s look back and remember some of the key milestones that helped shape “Mac” computers.
1976: Founded by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, Apple Computers Inc. was born!
1977: Just one year later, Apple Computers Inc. released the Macintosh’s predecessor… The Apple II.
1979: Developer Jef Raskin proposes the first concept of the Macintosh computer. Development begins.
1980: Apple grows rapidly and nets over $100 million with over 1,000 employees.
1981: Apple II becomes the most popular (and widely used) computer around the world.
1984: The Macintosh computer launches, appearing in a Ridley Scott commercial during the 3rd quarter of the Super Bowl. The Macintosh initially came in a bundle with MacWrite and MacPaint applications (which were super popular applications back in 1984)!
1987: Just three years later, Macintosh II hits the market. This is the first Macintosh computer with color graphics.
1998: The all-new iMac launches, which took the world by storm. The new model swapped a floppy disk drive for a CD-ROM drive and added two USB ports. Apple begins phasing out “Macintosh” for a more sophisticated-sounding “Mac” when referring to Apple computers.
2000: After 24 years, Steve Jobs finally becomes the permanent CEO of Apple.
2001: Apple releases Mac OSX (now macOS), which is a Unix-based operating system.
2005: Apple launches Mac Mini, the cheapest Mac on the market to date.
2011: Steve Jobs passes away due to health complications. Tim Cook becomes Apple’s new CEO. Apple introduces iCloud, a cloud-based computer service.
2020: Apple launches its very own microprocessor, the M1. One of the fastest microprocessors on the market.
Apple is a company rapidly expanding and changing every year. Since 1976, Mac computers have come a long way. Who knows what the next 40 years will hold, we are just excited to watch the progress!
