The Skepticism of Steve Jobs

In 1981, Steve Jobs expressed skepticism about the home market for personal computers. He believed that the home wasn't a viable market yet, as there were not enough specific applications to justify the high cost of personal computers.

"We view the home not really as a market yet… There’s not enough specific applications to cost-justify spending a thousand to three thousand dollars for a personal computer to be used in the home."

The Launch of the Macintosh

Fast forward to January 24, 1984, when Apple unveiled the Macintosh, a revolutionary device priced at $2,495. Designed by Jef Raskin, the Macintosh aimed to bring powerful computing to the masses with its emphasis on simplicity and user-friendliness.

Key Features of the Original Macintosh

• 64KB of ROM and 128KB of RAM
• Integrated Lisa Technology
• Weighed 16.5 pounds

Apple's marketing strategy highlighted two key applications: word processing and graphics, which were offered free for the first 100 days after purchase. The innovative mouse technology was a significant selling point, allowing users to navigate menus with ease.

Despite the steep price, the Macintosh was a success, selling 70,000 units by May 1984. Although it was discontinued within a year, it laid the groundwork for Apple's enduring ecosystem of personal computing devices, including the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, and more.

Apple's Continued Success

In 2024, Apple reported a fourth-quarter revenue of $94.9 billion, showing a slight increase in Mac revenue, which reached $7.74 billion. This ongoing success can be traced back to the revolutionary impact of the Macintosh on personal computing.