The launch of the Apple I and Apple II

The Apple I and Apple II were groundbreaking computers that played a pivotal role in shaping the modern personal computing industry. Developed by Steve Wozniak and marketed by Steve Jobs, these computers laid the foundation for Apple Inc.’s success.

The Launch of the Apple I

The Apple I, released in April 1976, was the first computer produced by Apple, then known as Apple Computer Company. Unlike most computers of the time, which were sold as DIY kits requiring users to assemble components themselves, the Apple I came as a fully assembled circuit board. However, it still required users to add a power supply, keyboard, and monitor.

Key Features of the Apple I:

• Processor: MOS 6502 running at 1 MHz
• Memory: 4 KB RAM (expandable to 8 KB or 48 KB with modifications)
• Storage: Cassette tape interface
• Display: Text output on a monitor (40×24 character display)
• Price: Sold for $666.66, with around 200 units produced

Impact of the Apple I:

The Apple I was a major step forward from computers of the time, as it simplified the setup process for hobbyists. Wozniak designed the machine, and Jobs found a way to commercialize it, securing a deal with Byte Shop, a computer retailer, which ordered 50 units.

However, the Apple I had limitations, and Apple quickly moved toward developing a more advanced machine—the Apple II.

The Launch of the Apple II

Introduced in April 1977 at the West Coast Computer Faire, the Apple II was one of the first highly successful personal computers. Unlike the Apple I, it came as a fully assembled and ready-to-use machine with a keyboard, case, and built-in BASIC programming language.

Key Features of the Apple II:

• Processor: MOS 6502 at 1 MHz
• Memory: Started with 4 KB RAM, expandable up to 48 KB
• Graphics: Color graphics support (a significant breakthrough at the time)
• Storage: Initially used cassette tapes; later, the Disk II floppy drive (introduced in 1978) became a game-changer
• Price: Ranged from $1,298 to $2,638, depending on configuration

Why the Apple II Was Revolutionary:

• Color Graphics: Unlike most computers, which only supported text, the Apple II featured color graphics, making it ideal for gaming and business applications.
• Expandability: It included expansion slots, allowing users to add peripherals such as memory cards, printers, and storage devices.
• User-Friendly Design: The all-in-one design with a built-in keyboard made it more appealing to general consumers.
• Software Boom: It supported programs like VisiCalc, the first-ever spreadsheet program, which made it highly valuable for businesses.

Legacy of the Apple I and Apple II

The Apple I helped establish Apple as a company, but the Apple II made Apple a leader in the personal computer revolution. The Apple II series remained in production until 1993, proving its longevity and success.

The launch of these computers marked a turning point in technology history, inspiring the development of modern personal computers and setting the stage for Apple’s future innovations.