A “scrawny hippie” and a “nerdy engineer” – Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak – forged a friendship built on pranks and a shared vision to change the world. On April 1, 1976, they officially founded Apple Computer in a Silicon Valley garage.

The Founding and Early Years

The improbable journey began with a two-page partnership document. Jobs and Wozniak each received a 45% stake in the company, with the remaining 10% going to their advisor, Ron Wayne. Wayne quickly sold his share for $2,300 – a decision that would prove to be a $370 billion mistake, considering Apple’s current $3.7 trillion market value.

Early Products and Public Offering

Apple didn’t achieve its first major success until June 1977 with the release of the Apple II computer, priced at $1,298. The computer’s booming sales led to Apple’s initial public offering (IPO) in late 1980, priced at $22 per share (equivalent to 10 cents after stock splits). An investment of $2,200 at the IPO would now be worth over $5.5 million.

Innovation and Internal Strife

On January 24, 1984, Steve Jobs unveiled the first Macintosh at Apple’s annual shareholders meeting, quoting Bob Dylan’s “The Times They Are A-Changin’”. The Macintosh introduced the computer mouse and a graphical user interface to a wider audience.

The Iconic 1984 Ad

A groundbreaking television commercial directed by Ridley Scott, inspired by George Orwell’s “1984,” aired during the Super Bowl that year. This ad is widely credited with elevating Super Bowl commercials to an art form and becoming a significant part of the cultural zeitgeist.

Jobs' Departure and Return

Despite the Macintosh’s innovative features, its higher price point hindered sales. This led to internal conflicts and, ultimately, Jobs’ departure from Apple in September 1985, following a power struggle with then-CEO John Sculley, a former PepsiCo executive.

A Stunning Comeback

After a period of decline, Apple engineered a surprising return for Jobs in 1997. Initially serving as an advisor, Jobs soon became CEO and spearheaded a decade of innovation, launching the iPod, iPhone, and iPad.

The iPod, iPhone, and Beyond

Apple introduced the iPod in October 2001, revolutionizing the music industry and selling 450 million units. However, Jobs’ most significant achievement came with the unveiling of the iPhone on January 9, 2007.

The iPhone Revolution

Jobs famously declared the iPhone as “one device” combining an iPod, a cellphone, and an internet communicator. Over 3 billion iPhones have been sold, and the device continues to generate over half of Apple’s $416 billion annual revenue, even after Jobs’ death in 2011.

A Lasting Legacy

While Apple’s current success is partially attributed to the iPhone, the company’s value has increased tenfold since Jobs’ passing. This demonstrates the enduring impact of his vision and the continued success of his successor, Tim Cook, in preserving Apple’s legacy.