Apple launches the Macintosh 128K

22nd January 1984
Apple launches the Macintosh 128K

On the 22nd January 1984, during the third quarter of Super Bowl XVIII, a new advert aired on US television station CBS. Directed by Ridley Scott and called "1984", the advert introduced the new Apple Macintosh computer to millions of people.

Initially released simply as "Apple Macintosh" but later rebranded to "Macintosh 128", the new computer was an all-in-one desktop computer. Its beige case contained a 9 in (23 cm) monitor and came with a keyboard and mouse. An indentation in the top of the case made it easier for the computer to be lifted and carried.

The Macintosh was based around a Motorola 68000 processor, running at 8 MHz, and was the first personal computer to use the new 3.5" floppy drive format. The retail price at launch on the 24th January 1984 was $2,495.

Related information:

Image:

  • Apple Macintosh advertisement, 1984
    Credit: © Apple Computer, Inc. Images remain the copyright of the original copyright holder. Used under fair use policy for educational purposes only.


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Apple launches the Macintosh 128K

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