Apple

Apple Computer, Inc., founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne, revolutionized personal computing with a focus on usability, design, and innovation. The Apple I and Apple II series made computers accessible to individuals and small businesses, with the Apple II becoming a massive success thanks to its expandability and large software ecosystem. In 1984, Apple launched the Macintosh, introducing the graphical user interface and mouse to a broad audience — setting the standard for future computers.

Throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, Apple built a loyal user base among creative professionals with the Macintosh line but struggled with product fragmentation, high prices, and fierce competition from IBM-compatible PCs. Internal power struggles and strategic missteps eventually led to financial decline, culminating in Steve Jobs' return to the company in 1997. Though this period ended in turmoil, the foundations laid during these years would eventually fuel Apple's spectacular resurgence.