What was the price of the first Apple computer? This question often sparks curiosity among tech enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The Apple I, the company’s first product, marked the beginning of a tech revolution that would change the world as we know it. Understanding the initial price of this groundbreaking device provides insight into the early days of Apple and the visionary leadership of Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak.
The Apple I was introduced in 1976, just a year after Jobs and Wozniak founded Apple Computer Company. This hand-built, non-user-friendly computer was a kit that customers had to assemble themselves. It featured a single 6502 CPU, 4KB of RAM, and a power supply, and it was priced at a staggering $666.66. The unusual price point was believed to be a nod to the year of Jesus Christ’s birth, as Jobs was a follower of the Church of Scientology.
Despite its high price tag, the Apple I was not widely successful due to its complexity and the need for technical expertise to assemble it. However, it laid the foundation for the company’s future success. In 1977, Apple introduced the Apple II, which was much more accessible to the average consumer. The Apple II was priced at $1,298, a far more reasonable price for the time.
The Apple I’s high price and limited appeal highlight the challenges faced by the young company in its early years. However, it also demonstrated the innovative spirit and vision that would define Apple’s future. Today, the Apple I is a highly sought-after collectible, with some units selling for tens of thousands of dollars. Its initial price of $666.66 is a testament to the company’s early ambition and the incredible journey that followed.
