Classic Computers, Enduring Ideas
Classic Computers, Enduring Ideas
David Pogue reflects on his 42-year relationship with Apple as the company celebrates its 50th anniversary. He shares anecdotes about his first Macintosh, upgrading its memory, and interactions with Steve Jobs. Pogue also recounts how Apple created the screenshot feature for his book, “iPhone: the Missing Manual.”
https://pogueman.substack.com/p/apple-and-me-the-first-50-years
Apple and Me: The First 50 Years Read More »
To celebrate its 50th anniversary, Apple CEO Tim Cook shared rare prototypes and archives of iconic products like the iPod and iPhone with The Wall Street Journal. Cook reflected on the company’s journey, including successes, failures, and a special project from Steve Jobs, while offering insights and advice for the future leadership of Apple.
Apple Has Archives Even Tim Cook Didn’t Know About. We Went Inside Read More »
Before the iPod, iPhone, or even the Apple-1, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak were Silicon Valley teenagers fascinated by electronics who joined forces to pioneer personal computing. On April 1, 1976, along with Ronald Wayne, they founded Apple Computer Company to market Wozniak’s microcomputer kit, driven by a shared vision of the transformative power of personal computers. This oral history from Apple’s early collaborators captures how their passion, preparation, and community support sparked a revolution that now touches billions worldwide.
How Apple Became Apple: The Definitive Oral History of the Company’s Earliest Days Read More »
A newly surfaced 1999 internal video captures Steve Jobs discussing Apple’s product strategy shortly after the launch of the iBook G3 at Macworld New York, highlighting the completion of Apple’s four-quadrant product lineup and the introduction of AirPort wireless networking developed with Lucent. Jobs emphasized Apple’s advantage in integrating hardware and software to bring innovations like wireless networking and FireWire to market efficiently and stated that the company’s focus was on making great products rather than just financial recovery, aiming to make Apple great again by prioritizing creative professionals, education, and consumers over enterprise markets.
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/03/23/steve-jobs-talks-ibook-airport-and-more/
Steve Jobs Talks iBook, AirPort, and More in Newly Surfaced 1999 Video Read More »
Apple’s Fn/Globe key evolution reflects its struggle with modifier key functionality. Originally designed to simulate missing keys on compact keyboards, the Fn key expanded tasks but lacked standardization across devices. With the introduction of the Globe key on iPads and Macs, Apple introduced new shortcuts, but inconsistencies between devices and confusing user experiences emerged. The challenge lies in integrating a coherent system across third-party keyboards while managing existing shortcuts, ultimately complicating usage and confusing users. The article urges Apple to reconsider and simplify its approach to modifier keys for improved functionality and user experience.
iFixit offers guides, forums, teardowns, and a repair assistant for fixing items. It promotes community involvement and the Right to Repair movement, while providing a range of quality parts and tools in its store. The article discusses how Apple’s early laptops were designed for repairability, featuring easily replaceable keyboards, batteries, RAM, and storage, in contrast to current models that prioritize design over maintenance. The need for modular components is emphasized as essential for longevity and usability, especially in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.
https://www.ifixit.com/News/115995/how-apple-used-to-design-its-laptops-for-repairability
Macbook Neo Shows How Far Apple’s Repairability Design Has Fallen Read More »
HyperCard, Apple’s early hypermedia system, influenced web development significantly. It included sample stacks like “Art Bits,” showcasing two-color clip art. Over 700 images from this collection have been optimized and shared online for users’ enjoyment, maintaining a small size. Categories include beasts, buildings, media, and more, each containing various clip art examples.
https://archives.somnolescent.net/web/mari_v2/junk/hypercard/
Art Bits From HyperCard Read More »
Beagle Bros, a nostalgic 1980s software company for Apple II, was known for its quirky and fun applications. Their products combined practical tools with whimsical design, fostering a playful programming environment. Despite their eventual decline due to competition, their legacy inspires a community that values creativity in software development, illustrated by the ongoing interest in their catalog.
“Our Programs Are Fun to Use.” Read More »
“Sleep Indicator Light,” first seen on the iBook G3 in 1999, evolved through Apple products to signify sleep status with a breathing animation. Despite its artistic touch, it was phased out in the 2010s. The light served practical purposes, but its organic design is missed, highlighting the importance of meaningful details in tech.
https://unsung.aresluna.org/just-a-little-detail-that-wouldnt-sell-anything/
“Just a Little Detail That Wouldn’t Sell Anything” Read More »
Apple Arcade now features Retrocade, a top app for playing retro arcade games. It offers classic titles like Pac-Man and Asteroids with excellent controls, daily challenges, and global high scores. However, it lacks certain features like multiplayer and Mac support. Despite its limitations, it signals a shift in Apple’s gaming strategy towards embracing retro gaming without the hassle of emulation. The app costs $6.99/month or as part of Apple One.
