Why today, 24 January, is a key date for Apple and tech

The Macintosh 128K wasn’t Apple’s first computer, but it marked a milestone by changing consumers’ perception of personal computing devices. Launched on January 24, 1984, this innovative ‘all-in-one’ computer presented a simple and revolutionary proposal. Today marks the 40th anniversary of that special launch which you can watch below.

While Apple’s early computers, such as the Apple I, II, and III, entered the market between 1976 and 1980, it was in the 1980s that Apple transformed the landscape of personal computers with the Macintosh 128K.

January 24: a big day in Apple history

This computer stood out for its WIMP interface (Windows, Icons, Mouse Pointer), emphasizing ease of use, personal creativity, and challenging the notion that computers were limited to green text on black screens. Known as Apple’s first computer with the Mac designation, the Macintosh 128K merged the screen and components into a single device, a proposition that Apple continues to offer in its current line of desktop computers.

Where it began:

Equipped with a Motorola 68000 CPU, 128 KB of RAM, and a 512 x 342 pixel display, it ran on the Mac OS 1.0 operating system, promising a user-friendly experience. In 1983, Apple had previously launched the Apple Lisa, another all-in-one focused on the business sector, which, despite not achieving commercial success, introduced advancements later adopted by the Macintosh 128K, such as the graphical user interface, the mouse as a peripheral, and 10MB of internal memory.

Where we are now:

How much did the 1984 Macintosh 128K cost?

The Macintosh 128K, with an initial price of $2,500, went on sale after a television commercial aired during Super Bowl XVIII on January 22, directed by Ridley Scott, creating anticipation before its official release. Here is that advert:

How things have changed...