“Personal Computer – Apple iMac, Bondi Blue, 1998” by Photographer: Benjamin Healley is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
This week, we celebrate the 26th anniversary of the reveal of the personal computer that changed the industry forever, the Apple iMac. Steve Jobs, who had recently returned to the company he had founded after 11 years away, proudly unveiled his first major consumer product, which was ultimately an instant success and altered Apple’s path permanently.
On May 6th, 1998 at the Macworld event, Steve detailed his new product, highlighting it as a fusion of internet connectivity and Macintosh’s simplicity. Jobs emphasized the iMac’s ease of use for online access, aligning with consumer demands, and promoted its benefits to the educational sector, especially with its release timed for the next school year.
Looks Really Do Matter
During his presentation, Jobs critiqued contemporary computers for their slow performance, poor display quality, and insufficient networking capabilities, notably calling them “ugly.” He contrasted these flaws with the iMac’s design, boasting that even the iMac’s rear looked superior to the front of its competitors’ products.
Launched at $1,299, the first iMac featured a G3 233-MHz processor and a 15-inch display, distinguished by its colorful, curvy, and translucent design—an innovative departure from the norm. Jobs remarked on the importance of fashion in the consumer market, showcasing Apple’s focus on design.
The iMac’s marketing strategy proved effective, becoming the top-selling computer of the 1998 holiday season. In an interview, Jobs emphasized Apple’s focus on enhancing its brand, likening it to iconic brands like Nike, Disney, and Sony. This strategy succeeded, with Apple being named the most valuable brand by Interbrand for five consecutive years by 2017.
The Wrap
The iMac, debuting as a significant evolution of the 1984 compact Macintosh, marked a key point in Apple’s history, especially following Steve Jobs’ return as interim CEO a year prior. It stood out for its design and was crucial in reversing Apple’s fortunes, setting the stage for future growth and establishing a design-first approach for subsequent products. This launch, branded “Back on Track,” played a pivotal role in Apple’s journey back to profitability.
Go Deeper –> On May 6th, 1998, the iMac Changed Apple, and the Entire World – Apple Insider
