Apple 1

Apple 1

Apple I

The Apple I, also known as the Apple-1, is a desktop computer released by the Apple Computer Company (now Apple Inc.) in 1976. It was designed and hand-built by Steve Wozniak, while Steve Jobs took the helm in marketing the product. The Apple I is notable for being the first product launched by Apple, marking the beginning of what would become one of the most valuable companies in the world. It played a significant role in the home computer revolution of the late 1970s.

Development

The development of the Apple I was a pivotal moment in computing history. Steve Wozniak's interest in computer design, combined with Steve Jobs' vision for a more accessible computer, led to the creation of a device that was both innovative and ahead of its time. Wozniak's design simplified the number of components needed, making it more affordable and accessible to the average consumer. This design philosophy would become a hallmark of Apple's approach to product development.

Release

The Apple I was officially released in July 1976 at a price of $666.66. It was sold as a fully assembled circuit board, a rarity at the time when most computers were sold as kits. However, it did not include a case, power supply, keyboard, or monitor, which were left to the user to provide. The initial production run was financed by selling Jobs' Volkswagen van and Wozniak's HP-65 calculator, demonstrating the founders' commitment to their vision.

Specifications

The Apple I featured a MOS Technology 6502 microprocessor running at 1 MHz. It came with 4 KB of RAM, expandable to 8 KB or 48 KB using expansion cards. The system used a simple text-based video interface, capable of displaying 24 lines by 40 columns of text on a monitor. Input and output were handled through a keyboard and a cassette tape interface, respectively.

Impact

The release of the Apple I marked a significant moment in the personal computing revolution. It demonstrated that computers could be both affordable and accessible to the general public, not just to hobbyists or professionals. The Apple I's success laid the groundwork for the introduction of the Apple II, which would become one of the best-selling personal computers of its time.

Legacy

The Apple I holds a special place in computing history. While it was not a commercial success by modern standards, selling approximately 200 units, its impact on the industry and its role in the founding of Apple Inc. cannot be overstated. Today, original Apple I computers are highly sought after by collectors, with some units selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction.