🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 182 (from laksa151)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa182.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Apple\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Apple\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/Apple","crawl_time":1775871305,"first_indexed_time":1649282961,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,techtarget!www,\/whatis\/definition\/Apple s443","src_root_hash":"17789036595607440382","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"What is Apple? An products and history overview","meta_descriptions":["Learn about Apple Inc., the computer\/consumer electronics company famous for the iPhone, iPad, Mac computers, etc. Explore its product line and history."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Apple Inc. (formerly Apple Computer Inc.) is an American computer and consumer electronics company famous for creating the iPhone, iPad and Macintosh computers. Apple is one of the largest companies globally with a market cap of more than $3 trillion.\nApple devices are renowned for their design aesthetic and attention to detail. Tight integration between\nhardware\nand\nsoftware\ngives their\nsystems\na performance advantage over competitor systems with similar specifications.\nApple rose to its position as a market leader by correctly positioning its products. They didn't invent\npersonal computers\n, graphical user interfaces (GUIs),\nmp3\nplayers,\nsmartphones\n,\nsmartwatches\nor\ntablets\n. Instead, they produced some of the first versions of these products that were refined, easy to use and well-designed, which led to wide market adoption.\nApple desktop and mobile devices\nApple product lines\nApple offers numerous products and services. A few of its major offerings today include:\nMac computer\n.\nThe\nMacintosh\n, or Mac, is Apple's line of personal computers. Its main product types are the iMac all-in-one desktop, Mac mini standard desktop, Mac Studio media-focused desktop, Mac Pro professional production workstation desktop, MacBook Air consumer laptop and MacBook Pro professional laptop.\nMacBook Air laptop\nAll Mac computers use the\nmacOS\noperating system. Since 2020, they use the \"M\" series CPUs designed by Apple based on\nARM\narchitecture. These chips have been praised for their excellent performance and power efficiency. Mac computers are popular with students and creative professionals for their elevated style and ease of use. Computer programmers might also use them because the underlying operating system is based on Unix and is\nPOSIX\ncompatible. Due to the lack of built-in central management and high cost, Mac computers have historically been unpopular in the workplace. Still, the introduction of\nZero Trust\n,\nBYOD\nand third-party tools such as\nJamf\nhave begun to make them more acceptable to IT administrators.\niPhone and iPad.\nThe\niPhone\nis Apple's smartphone line, and the\niPad\nis its tablet. The iPhone was the first smartphone to receive mass market adoption due to its ease of use, built-in app store and\ncapacitive\nmultitouch touchscreen. The iPhone uses the \"A\" series mobile CPU, and recent iPads use the same \"M\" series CPUs as Mac computers. Their operating systems\niOS\nand iPadOS, are based on the same Unix kernel as macOS but have a touch-focused interface.\nApple Watch.\nThe \nApple Watch\n is a smartwatch and fitness tracker. It can monitor health signals, such as ECG, blood oxygen and heart rate data. It can also act as a digital key, allowing users to unlock, lock and start compatible cars. The Apple Watch runs on the \nwatchOS\noperating system.\nApple AirPods.\nAirPods are wireless headphones that sync with Apple devices through Bluetooth. Apple users can listen to audio including music, movies and messages through AirPods. Additionally, users can take phone calls through AirPods and use Siri. The AirPods Pro 2 can be used as an over-the-counter hearing aid for those who do not suffer from severe hearing loss, but to use this feature, users need to take a test to analyze hearing loss.\nApple TV.\nApple TV\n is a television set-top box and streaming media device. AppleTV has voice control capabilities and can integrate with other Apple devices via Airplay. It also has video conferencing features and the ability to locate the Siri remote. The Apple TV runs on the\ntvOS\noperating system.\nApple Airtag.\nThe Apple Airtag is a small tracking device. Users can attach it to items they wish to track and see its location using the Find My app. The Airtag uses Bluetooth to establish its location by communicating with other devices in the Find My network.\nVision Pro.\nThe Apple Vision Pro is a \nmixed reality\n headset -- an augmented reality headset also capable of virtual reality. It was \ndebuted at WWDC\n – Apple's annual developers conference -- in 2023, and it became available in all U.S. Apple Store locations and the Apple Store online on Feb. 2, 2024. It runs on the visionOS operating system, which displays apps using \nspatial computing\n. The user interface is controlled by eyes, hands and voice. Users can video conference, stream media and capture images using a three-dimensional camera. The headset has advanced eye tracking and optical identity features – called Optic ID -- for authentication and security. The Vision Pro supports Microsoft Word, Excel and Teams. It is available starting at $3,499, with 256GB of storage. Zeiss optical inserts are also available for this headset, at $99 for readers and $149 for prescriptions.\nServices.\nApple also provides several services that seamlessly work with its products. Apple\niCloud\nis a personal file storage and synchronization service. Apple Pay is a money payment system and a credit card provider. Apple TV+ is a media streaming service with movies and TV programming. Apple also provides other media under the iTunes store, Apple Music, Apple Books and other services. iMessage is an Apple device-specific instant messaging service that extends\nSMS\nfor iPhones.\nSiri\nis a virtual assistant that answers questions and performs various tasks, such as making phone calls or sending messages.\nApple Intelligence.\nApple created its AI platform for\ngenerative AI\ncapabilities across its products.\nApple Intelligence\nintegrates ChatGPT through Siri for more advanced answers. Users can use Apple Intelligence to manage schedules, enhance writing, summarize text from emails or messages, create custom emojis or images, enhance photos and create memory movies. Apple Intelligence will be integrated into iOS 18 and supported on devices such as iPhone 15 Pro and newer; iPad Air models with M1 or newer chips; and Mac models with M1 or newer chips.\nThe iPhone 14 Pro and Max\nApple Inc. history\nApple Computer was founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak. The third founding member, Ronald Wayne, quickly sold his ownership to Jobs and Wozniak. Their first product was the Apple I\nmicrocomputer\n, which they built in Jobs' family garage. It was sold as a single board with\nCPU\nand\nRAM\n, but without other basic components such as a keyboard and monitor.\nThe Apple II was introduced in 1977. It was a commercial success due to its ease of use, color graphics and VisiCalc, a spreadsheet program. Its popularity propelled Apple to become the leading computer manufacturer in America and led to one of the largest IPOs of its time.\nSteve Jobs became obsessed with GUIs after seeing Xerox's early Alto system. This led him to add a GUI to the next Apple system, the Apple Lisa. Under Jobs' direction, the Apple Lisa development went far over time and over budget, which led to his being removed as the head of the project. The Apple Lisa was eventually released in 1983 but was a commercial flop due to its high price and lack of software.\nJobs moved to head development of the Macintosh computer. An advertisement heralded its release in 1984 during the Super Bowl with a dystopian 1984 theme, which was a direct challenge to the market leader\nIBM\n. This advertisement is widely considered one of the greatest ads ever shown on television. Despite this, the Macintosh had poor initial sales due to its high price and low performance.\nApple iPad series\nThe conflict between Steve Jobs and then Apple CEO John Sculley over the release of the Macintosh led to Jobs being removed from all duties by the board of directors. This caused Jobs to leave Apple and start a new company, NeXT computers. At about this time, Steve Wozniak also stepped down from a leadership role at Apple due to personal reasons.\nDespite the loss of its founding members, Apple continued to do well in the late 1980s and early 1990s. This was largely due to continuing sales of the Apple II and the eventual success of an upgraded Macintosh in the creative market. During this time, Adobe products, such as\nPhotoshop\nand Publisher, and other high-quality\ndigital publishing\nsoftware were only available on Macintosh.\nSeveral factors led to Apple losing profitability, and almost going bankrupt in the mid-1990s. Apple experimented with releasing other consumer electronics products. The most disastrous of which was the Newton tablet. Apple also faced stiff competition from lower-cost Microsoft Windows-based PCs, especially with the release of\nWindows\n95. The Macintosh operating system was also starting to show its age and did not properly support Multitasking.\nDesperate to return to profitability and find a new operating system for its computers, Apple purchased Steve Jobs' new company, NeXT in early 1997. Jobs was then named interim CEO of Apple after the former CEO was ousted in mid-1997. He was able to refocus Apple on its core computer business and save it from bankruptcy. In 1998 the iMac was introduced. It was designed by Jonathan Ive and was popular for its friendly colorful gumdrop shape. Apple also introduced video editing and CD\/DVD mastering software, cementing Macintosh's role in digital media production.\nMac OS X was released in 2001. It was based on the operating system work of NeXT and used the stable and secure BSD Unix\nkernel\n. Also, in 2001, Apple released the iPod to wide acclaim, establishing Apple's place as a trendsetter in consumer electronics.\nThe iPhone was introduced in 2007, becoming one of the first popular smartphones. The next year App Store launched, allowing third-party developers to sell and market their apps to users. The iPhone was followed by the popular iPhone 4 and iPad in 2010.\nEvolution of the Apple iPhone\nIn early 2011 Steve Jobs took a leave of absence; naming Tim Cook as the new CEO of Apple. Steve Jobs died on October 5, 2011.\nApple has continued to release new products and expanded services in recent years. Apple has switched to using its own in-house designed CPUs, first in iPhone and now in its Macintosh line of computers. It also offers media\nstreaming services\nthrough Apple TV+ and Apple Music. It is expected that Apple might enter new markets soon, with rumors that a\nvirtual reality\n\/\naugmented reality\nheadset and a\nself-driving automobile\nin development.\nSee how\nApple Mac performance and features boost its appeal to business\nand explore what\nrole Apple TV can serve within a business\n. Learn how\nto support Mac computers in Windows environments\nand check out a\nguide to enrolling Apple devices in Jamf\n.\nContinue Reading About Apple\nApple chases premium market with iPhone 14\nUnderstanding the DaaS options for Macs\nHow to choose the right Mac for business\nHow to sideload iOS apps and why it's dangerous\nApple, Microsoft, Google expand FIDO2 passwordless support","attrs_markdown":"[WhatIs](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/)\n\nBrowse Definitions :\n\n- [A](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/A)\n- [B](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/B)\n- [C](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/C)\n- [D](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/D)\n- [E](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/E)\n- [F](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/F)\n- [G](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/G)\n- [H](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/H)\n- [I](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/I)\n- [J](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/J)\n- [K](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/K)\n- [L](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/L)\n- [M](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/M)\n- [N](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/N)\n- [O](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/O)\n- [P](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/P)\n- [Q](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/Q)\n- [R](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/R)\n- [S](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/S)\n- [T](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/T)\n- [U](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/U)\n- [V](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/V)\n- [W](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/W)\n- [X](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/X)\n- [Y](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/Y)\n- [Z](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/Z)\n- [\\#](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definitions\/0)\n\n[Login](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/login?fromURL=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.techtarget.com%2Fwhatis%2Fdefinition%2FApple) [Register](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/register?fromURL=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.techtarget.com%2Fwhatis%2Fdefinition%2FApple)\n\n- [TechTarget Network](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/)\n- [Tech Accelerator](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/techaccelerators)\n- [News](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/news\/)\n\n[RSS](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/rss)\n\n- [WhatIs](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/)\n- [Browse Definitions Personal computing](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Personal-Computing)\n  [IT management](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/IT-Management)  View All\n  \n  - [Certifications](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/IT-Certifications)\n  - [IT career paths](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Career-Paths)\n  - [IT Operations](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/IT-Operations)\n  - [Project management](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Project-Management)\n  - [Technical support](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Computing-Fundamentals)\n  \n  [Business software](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Enterprise-Business-Software)  View All\n  \n  - [ERP](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Business-and-ERP)\n  - [HR management](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/HR-management)\n  - [Marketing and CX](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Marketing-and-customer-experience)\n  - [Microsoft](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Microsoft)\n  - [Software applications](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Software-Applications)\n  \n  [Cloud computing](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Cloud-computing)  View All\n  \n  - [Internet applications](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Internet-applications)\n  - [Internet of Things](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Internet-of-Things)\n  - [Web services](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Web-services-SOA)\n  \n  [Computer science](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Computer-Science)  View All\n  \n  - [Electronics](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Electronics)\n  - [Internet technologies](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Internet-Technologies)\n  - [IT standards and organizations](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/IT-Standards-Organizations)\n  - [Microprocessors](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Microprocessors)\n  - [Robotics](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Robotics)\n  \n  [Data analytics and AI](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Business-intelligence-business-analytics)  View All\n  \n  - [Algorithms](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Algorithms)\n  - [Artificial intelligence](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Artificial-intelligence)\n  - [Data and data management](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Data-and-Data-Management)\n  - [Database management](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Database)\n  \n  [Data centers](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Data-centers)  View All\n  \n  - [Data backup and disaster recovery](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Backup-and-Recovery)\n  - [Data center management](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Data-center-management)\n  - [Linux](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Linux)\n  - [Operating systems](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Operating-Systems)\n  - [Storage Admin](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Storage-Management)\n  - [Storage and Data Mgmt](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Storage-and-Data-Management)\n  - [Virtualization](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Virtualization)\n  \n  [IT management](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/IT-Management)  View All\n  \n  - [Certifications](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/IT-Certifications)\n  - [IT career paths](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Career-Paths)\n  - [IT Operations](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/IT-Operations)\n  - [Personal computing](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Personal-Computing)\n  - [Project management](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Project-Management)\n  - [Technical support](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Computing-Fundamentals)\n  \n  [Networking](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Networking)  View All\n  \n  - [High-speed networks](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/High-Speed-Networks)\n  - [Network Admin](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Network-Administration)\n  - [Network hardware](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Network-Hardware)\n  - [Networking and communications](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Networking-and-Communications)\n  - [Wireless and mobile](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Wireless-Mobile)\n  \n  [Security](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Security)  View All\n  \n  - [Authentication and access control](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Authentication)\n  - [Compliance, risk and governance](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Compliance)\n  - [Network security](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Network-Security)\n  - [Security Admin](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Security-Management)\n  - [Threat management](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Security-Threats-and-Countermeasures)\n  \n  [Software development](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Software-Development)  View All\n  \n  - [Agile software development](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Agile-Scrum-XP-Programming)\n  - [AppDev](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Application-Development)\n  - [DevOps](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/DevOps)\n  - [Programming](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Programming)\n  \n  Please select a category\n  \n  - Business software\n  - Cloud computing\n  - Computer science\n  - Data analytics and AI\n  - Data centers\n  - IT management\n  - Networking\n  - Security\n  - Software development\n- [Browse Features Resources](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/resources)\n  - [Business strategies](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/resources\/Business-Strategies)\n  - [Career resources](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/resources\/Career-Resources)\n  - [Emerging tech](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/resources\/Emerging-Tech)\n  - [Tech explainers](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/resources\/Tech-Explainers)\n\n- Follow:\n\n- [Home](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/)\n- [Personal computing](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossary\/Personal-Computing)\n\nDefinition\n\n# Apple\n\n- Share this item with your network:\n\n![Gavin Wright](https:\/\/cdn.ttgtmedia.com\/rms\/onlineimages\/wright_gavin.jpg)\n\nBy\n\n- [Gavin Wright](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/contributor\/Gavin-Wright)\n\nPublished: Sep 11, 2024\n\n## What is Apple?\nApple Inc. (formerly Apple Computer Inc.) is an American computer and consumer electronics company famous for creating the iPhone, iPad and Macintosh computers. Apple is one of the largest companies globally with a market cap of more than \\$3 trillion.\n\nApple devices are renowned for their design aesthetic and attention to detail. Tight integration between [hardware](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchnetworking\/definition\/hardware) and [software](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchapparchitecture\/definition\/software) gives their [systems](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchwindowsserver\/definition\/system) a performance advantage over competitor systems with similar specifications.\n\nApple rose to its position as a market leader by correctly positioning its products. They didn't invent [personal computers](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/personal-computer-PC), graphical user interfaces (GUIs), [mp3](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/MP3-MPEG-1-Audio-Layer-3) players, [smartphones](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/smartphone), [smartwatches](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/iotagenda\/definition\/smartwatch) or [tablets](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/tablet-PC). Instead, they produced some of the first versions of these products that were refined, easy to use and well-designed, which led to wide market adoption.\n\n![Photo of Apple devices](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/rms\/onlineImages\/access_0318-apple_products_mobile.png)\n\nApple desktop and mobile devices\n\n## Apple product lines\nApple offers numerous products and services. A few of its major offerings today include:\n\n**Mac computer****.** The [Macintosh](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/Macintosh), or Mac, is Apple's line of personal computers. Its main product types are the iMac all-in-one desktop, Mac mini standard desktop, Mac Studio media-focused desktop, Mac Pro professional production workstation desktop, MacBook Air consumer laptop and MacBook Pro professional laptop.\n\n![Photo of MacBook Air](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/rms\/onlineimages\/macbook_air_m2-f_mobile.jpg)\n\nMacBook Air laptop\n\nAll Mac computers use the [macOS](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/Mac-OS) operating system. Since 2020, they use the \"M\" series CPUs designed by Apple based on [ARM](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/ARM-processor) architecture. These chips have been praised for their excellent performance and power efficiency. Mac computers are popular with students and creative professionals for their elevated style and ease of use. Computer programmers might also use them because the underlying operating system is based on Unix and is [POSIX](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/POSIX-Portable-Operating-System-Interface) compatible. Due to the lack of built-in central management and high cost, Mac computers have historically been unpopular in the workplace. Still, the introduction of [Zero Trust](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchsecurity\/definition\/zero-trust-model-zero-trust-network), [BYOD](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/BYOD-bring-your-own-device) and third-party tools such as [Jamf](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchenterprisedesktop\/tip\/Explore-Jamfs-products-and-features-for-Apple-management) have begun to make them more acceptable to IT administrators.\n\n**iPhone and iPad.** The [iPhone](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/iPhone) is Apple's smartphone line, and the [iPad](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/iPad) is its tablet. The iPhone was the first smartphone to receive mass market adoption due to its ease of use, built-in app store and [capacitive](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/capacitive-touch-screen) multitouch touchscreen. The iPhone uses the \"A\" series mobile CPU, and recent iPads use the same \"M\" series CPUs as Mac computers. Their operating systems [iOS](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/iOS) and iPadOS, are based on the same Unix kernel as macOS but have a touch-focused interface.\n\n**Apple Watch.** The [Apple Watch](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/Apple-Watch) is a smartwatch and fitness tracker. It can monitor health signals, such as ECG, blood oxygen and heart rate data. It can also act as a digital key, allowing users to unlock, lock and start compatible cars. The Apple Watch runs on the [watchOS](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/Apple-Watch-OS-Apple-Watch-operating-system) operating system.\n\n**Apple AirPods.**AirPods are wireless headphones that sync with Apple devices through Bluetooth. Apple users can listen to audio including music, movies and messages through AirPods. Additionally, users can take phone calls through AirPods and use Siri. The AirPods Pro 2 can be used as an over-the-counter hearing aid for those who do not suffer from severe hearing loss, but to use this feature, users need to take a test to analyze hearing loss.\n\n**Apple TV.** [Apple TV](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/Apple-TV-Apple-TV-4) is a television set-top box and streaming media device. AppleTV has voice control capabilities and can integrate with other Apple devices via Airplay. It also has video conferencing features and the ability to locate the Siri remote. The Apple TV runs on the [tvOS](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/tvOS) operating system.\n\n**Apple Airtag.** The Apple Airtag is a small tracking device. Users can attach it to items they wish to track and see its location using the Find My app. The Airtag uses Bluetooth to establish its location by communicating with other devices in the Find My network.\n\n**Vision Pro.** The Apple Vision Pro is a [mixed reality](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/mixed-reality) headset -- an augmented reality headset also capable of virtual reality. It was [debuted at WWDC](https:\/\/www.computerweekly.com\/news\/366539415\/Apples-3500-headset-offers-VR-at-a-premium) – Apple's annual developers conference -- in 2023, and it became available in all U.S. Apple Store locations and the Apple Store online on Feb. 2, 2024. It runs on the visionOS operating system, which displays apps using [spatial computing](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchcio\/definition\/spatial-computing). The user interface is controlled by eyes, hands and voice. Users can video conference, stream media and capture images using a three-dimensional camera. The headset has advanced eye tracking and optical identity features – called Optic ID -- for authentication and security. The Vision Pro supports Microsoft Word, Excel and Teams. It is available starting at \\$3,499, with 256GB of storage. Zeiss optical inserts are also available for this headset, at \\$99 for readers and \\$149 for prescriptions.\n\n**Services.** Apple also provides several services that seamlessly work with its products. Apple [iCloud](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/iCloud) is a personal file storage and synchronization service. Apple Pay is a money payment system and a credit card provider. Apple TV+ is a media streaming service with movies and TV programming. Apple also provides other media under the iTunes store, Apple Music, Apple Books and other services. iMessage is an Apple device-specific instant messaging service that extends [SMS](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/Short-Message-Service) for iPhones. [Siri](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/Siri) is a virtual assistant that answers questions and performs various tasks, such as making phone calls or sending messages.\n\n**Apple Intelligence.** Apple created its AI platform for [generative AI](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchenterpriseai\/definition\/generative-AI) capabilities across its products. [Apple Intelligence](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/Apple-Intelligence) integrates ChatGPT through Siri for more advanced answers. Users can use Apple Intelligence to manage schedules, enhance writing, summarize text from emails or messages, create custom emojis or images, enhance photos and create memory movies. Apple Intelligence will be integrated into iOS 18 and supported on devices such as iPhone 15 Pro and newer; iPad Air models with M1 or newer chips; and Mac models with M1 or newer chips.\n\n![Photo of Apple iPhone 14 Pro and Max](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/rms\/onlineimages\/Apple_iPhone_14_Pro_iPhone_14_Pro_Max_Dynamic_Island_demo_3up_mobile.jpg)\n\nThe iPhone 14 Pro and Max\n\n## Apple Inc. history\nApple Computer was founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak. The third founding member, Ronald Wayne, quickly sold his ownership to Jobs and Wozniak. Their first product was the Apple I [microcomputer](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/iotagenda\/definition\/microcomputer), which they built in Jobs' family garage. It was sold as a single board with [CPU](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/processor) and [RAM](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchstorage\/definition\/RAM-random-access-memory), but without other basic components such as a keyboard and monitor.\n\nThe Apple II was introduced in 1977. It was a commercial success due to its ease of use, color graphics and VisiCalc, a spreadsheet program. Its popularity propelled Apple to become the leading computer manufacturer in America and led to one of the largest IPOs of its time.\n\nSteve Jobs became obsessed with GUIs after seeing Xerox's early Alto system. This led him to add a GUI to the next Apple system, the Apple Lisa. Under Jobs' direction, the Apple Lisa development went far over time and over budget, which led to his being removed as the head of the project. The Apple Lisa was eventually released in 1983 but was a commercial flop due to its high price and lack of software.\n\nJobs moved to head development of the Macintosh computer. An advertisement heralded its release in 1984 during the Super Bowl with a dystopian 1984 theme, which was a direct challenge to the market leader [IBM](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchitchannel\/definition\/IBM-International-Business-Machines). This advertisement is widely considered one of the greatest ads ever shown on television. Despite this, the Macintosh had poor initial sales due to its high price and low performance.\n\n![Photo of Apple iPad series of tablets](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/rms\/onlineimages\/apple_ipad_air_availability_ipad_family_10162020_half_column_mobile.jpg)\n\nApple iPad series\n\nThe conflict between Steve Jobs and then Apple CEO John Sculley over the release of the Macintosh led to Jobs being removed from all duties by the board of directors. This caused Jobs to leave Apple and start a new company, NeXT computers. At about this time, Steve Wozniak also stepped down from a leadership role at Apple due to personal reasons.\n\nDespite the loss of its founding members, Apple continued to do well in the late 1980s and early 1990s. This was largely due to continuing sales of the Apple II and the eventual success of an upgraded Macintosh in the creative market. During this time, Adobe products, such as [Photoshop](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/Photoshop) and Publisher, and other high-quality [digital publishing](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/desktop-publishing) software were only available on Macintosh.\n\nSeveral factors led to Apple losing profitability, and almost going bankrupt in the mid-1990s. Apple experimented with releasing other consumer electronics products. The most disastrous of which was the Newton tablet. Apple also faced stiff competition from lower-cost Microsoft Windows-based PCs, especially with the release of [Windows](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchwindowsserver\/definition\/Windows) 95. The Macintosh operating system was also starting to show its age and did not properly support Multitasking.\n\nDesperate to return to profitability and find a new operating system for its computers, Apple purchased Steve Jobs' new company, NeXT in early 1997. Jobs was then named interim CEO of Apple after the former CEO was ousted in mid-1997. He was able to refocus Apple on its core computer business and save it from bankruptcy. In 1998 the iMac was introduced. It was designed by Jonathan Ive and was popular for its friendly colorful gumdrop shape. Apple also introduced video editing and CD\/DVD mastering software, cementing Macintosh's role in digital media production.\n\nMac OS X was released in 2001. It was based on the operating system work of NeXT and used the stable and secure BSD Unix [kernel](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchdatacenter\/definition\/kernel). Also, in 2001, Apple released the iPod to wide acclaim, establishing Apple's place as a trendsetter in consumer electronics.\n\nThe iPhone was introduced in 2007, becoming one of the first popular smartphones. The next year App Store launched, allowing third-party developers to sell and market their apps to users. The iPhone was followed by the popular iPhone 4 and iPad in 2010.\n\n![Chart of Apple's iPhone evolution](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/rms\/onlineimages\/evolution_of_apple_iphone-f_mobile.png)\n\nEvolution of the Apple iPhone\n\nIn early 2011 Steve Jobs took a leave of absence; naming Tim Cook as the new CEO of Apple. Steve Jobs died on October 5, 2011.\n\nApple has continued to release new products and expanded services in recent years. Apple has switched to using its own in-house designed CPUs, first in iPhone and now in its Macintosh line of computers. It also offers media [streaming services](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/video-streaming-service) through Apple TV+ and Apple Music. It is expected that Apple might enter new markets soon, with rumors that a [virtual reality](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/virtual-reality)\/[augmented reality](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/augmented-reality-AR) headset and a [self-driving automobile](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchenterpriseai\/definition\/driverless-car) in development.\n\n*See how* [*Apple Mac performance and features boost its appeal to business*](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchenterprisedesktop\/news\/252521279\/Apple-Mac-performance-features-boost-business-appeal) *and explore what* [*role Apple TV can serve within a business*](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/tip\/What-role-can-Apple-TV-serve-within-a-business)*. Learn how* [*to support Mac computers in Windows environments*](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchenterprisedesktop\/tip\/How-to-support-Mac-OS-X-and-Linux-in-Windows-environments) *and check out a* [*guide to enrolling Apple devices in Jamf*](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/tip\/A-guide-to-enrolling-Apple-devices-in-Jamf)*.*\n\n#### Continue Reading About Apple\n- [Apple chases premium market with iPhone 14](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/news\/252524731\/Apple-chases-growing-premium-market-with-iPhone-14)\n\n- [Understanding the DaaS options for Macs](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchvirtualdesktop\/tip\/Understanding-the-DaaS-options-for-Macs)\n\n- [How to choose the right Mac for business](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchenterprisedesktop\/tip\/How-to-choose-the-right-Mac-for-business)\n\n- [How to sideload iOS apps and why it's dangerous](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/opinion\/Did-you-know-how-easy-it-is-to-sideload-iOS-apps-to-your-iPhone)\n\n- [Apple, Microsoft, Google expand FIDO2 passwordless support](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchsecurity\/feature\/Apple-Microsoft-Google-expand-FIDO2-passwordless-support)\n\n#### Related Terms\n[What is an IP address (Internet Protocol address)?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/IP-address-Internet-Protocol-Address)\n\nAn Internet Protocol (IP) address is a unique numerical identifier for every device or network that connects to the internet. [See complete definition](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/IP-address-Internet-Protocol-Address)\n\n[What is Microsoft OneDrive and how do you use it?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/Microsoft-OneDrive)\n\nOneDrive is Microsoft's online cloud storage service. [See complete definition](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/Microsoft-OneDrive)\n\n[What is user-generated content?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchcio\/definition\/user-generated-content-UGC)\n\nUser-generated content (UGC) is published information that an unpaid contributor provides to a website. [See complete definition](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchcio\/definition\/user-generated-content-UGC)\n\n## New & Updated Definitions\n- [What is compensation management?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchhrsoftware\/definition\/compensation-management)\n  Compensation management is the discipline and process for determining employees' appropriate pay, incentives, rewards, bonuses and benefits. [See More.](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchhrsoftware\/definition\/compensation-management)\n- [What is talent management? Definition, basics and strategy](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchhrsoftware\/definition\/talent-management)\n- [What is core HR (core human resources)?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchhrsoftware\/definition\/core-HR-core-human-resources)\n- [What is HRIS (human resources information system)?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchhrsoftware\/definition\/HRIS)\n- [What is manager self-service?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchhrsoftware\/definition\/manager-self-service)\n- [What is HR automation? Examples, benefits and challenges](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchhrsoftware\/definition\/HR-automation)\n- [material requirements planning (MRP)](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searcherp\/definition\/material-requirements-planning-MRP)\n- [What is SaaS ERP?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searcherp\/definition\/SaaS-ERP-software-as-a-service-ERP-hosting)\n- [What is HR service delivery?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchhrsoftware\/definition\/HR-service-delivery)\n\nLatest TechTarget resources\n\n- [Networking](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/Apple)\n- [Security](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/Apple)\n- [CIO](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/Apple)\n- [HR Software](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/Apple)\n- [Customer Experience](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/Apple)\n\n[Search Networking](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchnetworking\/)\n\n- [What is multi-access edge computing? Benefits and use cases](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchnetworking\/definition\/What-is-multi-access-edge-computing-Benefits-and-use-cases)\n  Multi-access edge computing (MEC) is a network architecture concept that brings cloud computing capabilities and IT services ...\n- [What is 5G?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchnetworking\/definition\/5G)\n  Fifth-generation wireless or 5G is a global standard and technology for wireless and telecommunications networks.\n- [What is a small cell in wireless networks?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchnetworking\/definition\/small-cell)\n  A small cell is a type of low-power cellular radio access point or base station that provides wireless service within a limited ...\n\n[Search Security](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchsecurity\/)\n\n- [What is identity and access management? Guide to IAM](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchsecurity\/definition\/identity-access-management-IAM-system)\n  No longer just a good idea, IAM is a crucial piece of the cybersecurity puzzle. It's how an organization regulates access to ...\n- [What is data masking?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchsecurity\/definition\/data-masking)\n  Data masking is a security technique that modifies sensitive data in a data set so it can be used safely in a non-production ...\n- [What is antivirus software?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchsecurity\/definition\/antivirus-software)\n  Antivirus software (antivirus program) is a security program designed to prevent, detect, search and remove viruses and other ...\n\n[Search CIO](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchcio\/)\n\n- [What is a chief data officer (CDO)?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchcio\/definition\/chief-data-officer-CDO)\n  A chief data officer (CDO) in many organizations is a C-level executive whose position has evolved into a range of strategic data...\n- [What is user-generated content?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchcio\/definition\/user-generated-content-UGC)\n  User-generated content (UGC) is published information that an unpaid contributor provides to a website.\n- [What is business process outsourcing (BPO)?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchcio\/definition\/business-process-outsourcing)\n  Business process outsourcing (BPO) is a business practice in which an organization contracts with an external service provider to...\n\n[Search HRSoftware](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchhrsoftware\/)\n\n- [What is compensation management?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchhrsoftware\/definition\/compensation-management)\n  Compensation management is the discipline and process for determining employees' appropriate pay, incentives, rewards, bonuses ...\n- [What is talent management? Definition, basics and strategy](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchhrsoftware\/definition\/talent-management)\n  Talent management is a strategic approach organizations use to attract, develop, retain, and optimize employees.\n- [What is core HR (core human resources)?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchhrsoftware\/definition\/core-HR-core-human-resources)\n  Core HR (core human resources) is an umbrella term that refers to the essential, mandatory and fundamental tasks and functions of...\n\n[Search Customer Experience](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchcustomerexperience\/)\n\n- [What are virtual agents and how are they being used?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchcustomerexperience\/definition\/virtual-agent)\n  A virtual agent is an AI-powered software application or service that interacts with humans or other digital systems in a ...\n- [Customer acquisition cost (CAC): How to calculate and reduce it](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchcustomerexperience\/definition\/customer-acquisition-cost)\n  Customer acquisition cost (CAC) is the cost associated with convincing a consumer to buy your product or service, including ...\n- [What is direct marketing?](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchcustomerexperience\/definition\/direct-marketing)\n  Direct marketing is a type of advertising campaign that seeks to elicit an action (such as an order, a visit to a store or ...\n\n- [Browse by Topic](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/glossaries)\n- [Browse Resources](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/resources)\n\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.informatechtarget.com\/editorial\/)\n- [Meet The Editors](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/about\/Meet-the-Editors)\n- [Editorial Ethics Policy](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/techtarget-editorial-ethics-policy)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/www.informatechtarget.com\/contact-us\/)\n- [Advertisers](https:\/\/www.informatechtarget.com\/for-advertisers\/)\n- [Business Partners](https:\/\/www.informatechtarget.com\/partner-with-us\/)\n- [Events](https:\/\/www.brighttalk.com\/summits)\n- [Media Kit](https:\/\/www.informatechtarget.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/TechTarget-Media-Kit-Handout-with-product-descriptions.pdf)\n- [Corporate Site](https:\/\/www.informatechtarget.com\/)\n- [Reprints](https:\/\/licensing.ygsgroup.com\/ygspublishersolutions\/)\n\nAll Rights Reserved.  [Copyright 1999 - 2026](https:\/\/www.informatechtarget.com\/terms-of-use), TechTarget  \n   \n  [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.informatechtarget.com\/privacy-policy\/)    \n  [Cookie Preferences](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/Apple)    \n   [Cookie Preferences](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/Apple)    \n   [Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information](https:\/\/techtarget.zendesk.com\/hc\/en-us\/requests\/new?ticket_form_id=360004852434)\n\nClose\n\n![](https:\/\/go.techtarget.com\/clicktrack-r\/activity\/activity.gif?activityTypeId=16&t=2240113859&t2=2240113842&t3=450280953&t4=2240113844&t5=299657&t6=2240036608&t7=2240113860&a=2026-04-10%2013:44:08&g=2240115167&c=normal&auid=d9928471-6311-4b72-9928-ca439dc81d42&r=235833)","attrs_readable_markdown":"Apple Inc. (formerly Apple Computer Inc.) is an American computer and consumer electronics company famous for creating the iPhone, iPad and Macintosh computers. Apple is one of the largest companies globally with a market cap of more than \\$3 trillion.\n\nApple devices are renowned for their design aesthetic and attention to detail. Tight integration between [hardware](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchnetworking\/definition\/hardware) and [software](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchapparchitecture\/definition\/software) gives their [systems](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchwindowsserver\/definition\/system) a performance advantage over competitor systems with similar specifications.\n\nApple rose to its position as a market leader by correctly positioning its products. They didn't invent [personal computers](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/personal-computer-PC), graphical user interfaces (GUIs), [mp3](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/MP3-MPEG-1-Audio-Layer-3) players, [smartphones](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/smartphone), [smartwatches](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/iotagenda\/definition\/smartwatch) or [tablets](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/tablet-PC). Instead, they produced some of the first versions of these products that were refined, easy to use and well-designed, which led to wide market adoption.\n\n![Photo of Apple devices](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/rms\/onlineImages\/access_0318-apple_products_mobile.png)\n\nApple desktop and mobile devices\n\n## Apple product lines\nApple offers numerous products and services. A few of its major offerings today include:\n\n**Mac computer****.** The [Macintosh](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/Macintosh), or Mac, is Apple's line of personal computers. Its main product types are the iMac all-in-one desktop, Mac mini standard desktop, Mac Studio media-focused desktop, Mac Pro professional production workstation desktop, MacBook Air consumer laptop and MacBook Pro professional laptop.\n\n![Photo of MacBook Air](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/rms\/onlineimages\/macbook_air_m2-f_mobile.jpg)\n\nMacBook Air laptop\n\nAll Mac computers use the [macOS](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/Mac-OS) operating system. Since 2020, they use the \"M\" series CPUs designed by Apple based on [ARM](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/ARM-processor) architecture. These chips have been praised for their excellent performance and power efficiency. Mac computers are popular with students and creative professionals for their elevated style and ease of use. Computer programmers might also use them because the underlying operating system is based on Unix and is [POSIX](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/POSIX-Portable-Operating-System-Interface) compatible. Due to the lack of built-in central management and high cost, Mac computers have historically been unpopular in the workplace. Still, the introduction of [Zero Trust](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchsecurity\/definition\/zero-trust-model-zero-trust-network), [BYOD](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/BYOD-bring-your-own-device) and third-party tools such as [Jamf](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchenterprisedesktop\/tip\/Explore-Jamfs-products-and-features-for-Apple-management) have begun to make them more acceptable to IT administrators.\n\n**iPhone and iPad.** The [iPhone](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/iPhone) is Apple's smartphone line, and the [iPad](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/iPad) is its tablet. The iPhone was the first smartphone to receive mass market adoption due to its ease of use, built-in app store and [capacitive](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/capacitive-touch-screen) multitouch touchscreen. The iPhone uses the \"A\" series mobile CPU, and recent iPads use the same \"M\" series CPUs as Mac computers. Their operating systems [iOS](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/iOS) and iPadOS, are based on the same Unix kernel as macOS but have a touch-focused interface.\n\n**Apple Watch.** The [Apple Watch](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/Apple-Watch) is a smartwatch and fitness tracker. It can monitor health signals, such as ECG, blood oxygen and heart rate data. It can also act as a digital key, allowing users to unlock, lock and start compatible cars. The Apple Watch runs on the [watchOS](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/Apple-Watch-OS-Apple-Watch-operating-system) operating system.\n\n**Apple AirPods.**AirPods are wireless headphones that sync with Apple devices through Bluetooth. Apple users can listen to audio including music, movies and messages through AirPods. Additionally, users can take phone calls through AirPods and use Siri. The AirPods Pro 2 can be used as an over-the-counter hearing aid for those who do not suffer from severe hearing loss, but to use this feature, users need to take a test to analyze hearing loss.\n\n**Apple TV.** [Apple TV](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/Apple-TV-Apple-TV-4) is a television set-top box and streaming media device. AppleTV has voice control capabilities and can integrate with other Apple devices via Airplay. It also has video conferencing features and the ability to locate the Siri remote. The Apple TV runs on the [tvOS](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/tvOS) operating system.\n\n**Apple Airtag.** The Apple Airtag is a small tracking device. Users can attach it to items they wish to track and see its location using the Find My app. The Airtag uses Bluetooth to establish its location by communicating with other devices in the Find My network.\n\n**Vision Pro.** The Apple Vision Pro is a [mixed reality](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/mixed-reality) headset -- an augmented reality headset also capable of virtual reality. It was [debuted at WWDC](https:\/\/www.computerweekly.com\/news\/366539415\/Apples-3500-headset-offers-VR-at-a-premium) – Apple's annual developers conference -- in 2023, and it became available in all U.S. Apple Store locations and the Apple Store online on Feb. 2, 2024. It runs on the visionOS operating system, which displays apps using [spatial computing](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchcio\/definition\/spatial-computing). The user interface is controlled by eyes, hands and voice. Users can video conference, stream media and capture images using a three-dimensional camera. The headset has advanced eye tracking and optical identity features – called Optic ID -- for authentication and security. The Vision Pro supports Microsoft Word, Excel and Teams. It is available starting at \\$3,499, with 256GB of storage. Zeiss optical inserts are also available for this headset, at \\$99 for readers and \\$149 for prescriptions.\n\n**Services.** Apple also provides several services that seamlessly work with its products. Apple [iCloud](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/iCloud) is a personal file storage and synchronization service. Apple Pay is a money payment system and a credit card provider. Apple TV+ is a media streaming service with movies and TV programming. Apple also provides other media under the iTunes store, Apple Music, Apple Books and other services. iMessage is an Apple device-specific instant messaging service that extends [SMS](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/Short-Message-Service) for iPhones. [Siri](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/definition\/Siri) is a virtual assistant that answers questions and performs various tasks, such as making phone calls or sending messages.\n\n**Apple Intelligence.** Apple created its AI platform for [generative AI](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchenterpriseai\/definition\/generative-AI) capabilities across its products. [Apple Intelligence](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/Apple-Intelligence) integrates ChatGPT through Siri for more advanced answers. Users can use Apple Intelligence to manage schedules, enhance writing, summarize text from emails or messages, create custom emojis or images, enhance photos and create memory movies. Apple Intelligence will be integrated into iOS 18 and supported on devices such as iPhone 15 Pro and newer; iPad Air models with M1 or newer chips; and Mac models with M1 or newer chips.\n\n![Photo of Apple iPhone 14 Pro and Max](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/rms\/onlineimages\/Apple_iPhone_14_Pro_iPhone_14_Pro_Max_Dynamic_Island_demo_3up_mobile.jpg)\n\nThe iPhone 14 Pro and Max\n\n## Apple Inc. history\nApple Computer was founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak. The third founding member, Ronald Wayne, quickly sold his ownership to Jobs and Wozniak. Their first product was the Apple I [microcomputer](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/iotagenda\/definition\/microcomputer), which they built in Jobs' family garage. It was sold as a single board with [CPU](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/processor) and [RAM](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchstorage\/definition\/RAM-random-access-memory), but without other basic components such as a keyboard and monitor.\n\nThe Apple II was introduced in 1977. It was a commercial success due to its ease of use, color graphics and VisiCalc, a spreadsheet program. Its popularity propelled Apple to become the leading computer manufacturer in America and led to one of the largest IPOs of its time.\n\nSteve Jobs became obsessed with GUIs after seeing Xerox's early Alto system. This led him to add a GUI to the next Apple system, the Apple Lisa. Under Jobs' direction, the Apple Lisa development went far over time and over budget, which led to his being removed as the head of the project. The Apple Lisa was eventually released in 1983 but was a commercial flop due to its high price and lack of software.\n\nJobs moved to head development of the Macintosh computer. An advertisement heralded its release in 1984 during the Super Bowl with a dystopian 1984 theme, which was a direct challenge to the market leader [IBM](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchitchannel\/definition\/IBM-International-Business-Machines). This advertisement is widely considered one of the greatest ads ever shown on television. Despite this, the Macintosh had poor initial sales due to its high price and low performance.\n\n![Photo of Apple iPad series of tablets](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/rms\/onlineimages\/apple_ipad_air_availability_ipad_family_10162020_half_column_mobile.jpg)\n\nApple iPad series\n\nThe conflict between Steve Jobs and then Apple CEO John Sculley over the release of the Macintosh led to Jobs being removed from all duties by the board of directors. This caused Jobs to leave Apple and start a new company, NeXT computers. At about this time, Steve Wozniak also stepped down from a leadership role at Apple due to personal reasons.\n\nDespite the loss of its founding members, Apple continued to do well in the late 1980s and early 1990s. This was largely due to continuing sales of the Apple II and the eventual success of an upgraded Macintosh in the creative market. During this time, Adobe products, such as [Photoshop](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/Photoshop) and Publisher, and other high-quality [digital publishing](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/desktop-publishing) software were only available on Macintosh.\n\nSeveral factors led to Apple losing profitability, and almost going bankrupt in the mid-1990s. Apple experimented with releasing other consumer electronics products. The most disastrous of which was the Newton tablet. Apple also faced stiff competition from lower-cost Microsoft Windows-based PCs, especially with the release of [Windows](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchwindowsserver\/definition\/Windows) 95. The Macintosh operating system was also starting to show its age and did not properly support Multitasking.\n\nDesperate to return to profitability and find a new operating system for its computers, Apple purchased Steve Jobs' new company, NeXT in early 1997. Jobs was then named interim CEO of Apple after the former CEO was ousted in mid-1997. He was able to refocus Apple on its core computer business and save it from bankruptcy. In 1998 the iMac was introduced. It was designed by Jonathan Ive and was popular for its friendly colorful gumdrop shape. Apple also introduced video editing and CD\/DVD mastering software, cementing Macintosh's role in digital media production.\n\nMac OS X was released in 2001. It was based on the operating system work of NeXT and used the stable and secure BSD Unix [kernel](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchdatacenter\/definition\/kernel). Also, in 2001, Apple released the iPod to wide acclaim, establishing Apple's place as a trendsetter in consumer electronics.\n\nThe iPhone was introduced in 2007, becoming one of the first popular smartphones. The next year App Store launched, allowing third-party developers to sell and market their apps to users. The iPhone was followed by the popular iPhone 4 and iPad in 2010.\n\n![Chart of Apple's iPhone evolution](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/rms\/onlineimages\/evolution_of_apple_iphone-f_mobile.png)\n\nEvolution of the Apple iPhone\n\nIn early 2011 Steve Jobs took a leave of absence; naming Tim Cook as the new CEO of Apple. Steve Jobs died on October 5, 2011.\n\nApple has continued to release new products and expanded services in recent years. Apple has switched to using its own in-house designed CPUs, first in iPhone and now in its Macintosh line of computers. It also offers media [streaming services](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/video-streaming-service) through Apple TV+ and Apple Music. It is expected that Apple might enter new markets soon, with rumors that a [virtual reality](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/virtual-reality)\/[augmented reality](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/whatis\/definition\/augmented-reality-AR) headset and a [self-driving automobile](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchenterpriseai\/definition\/driverless-car) in development.\n\n*See how* [*Apple Mac performance and features boost its appeal to business*](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchenterprisedesktop\/news\/252521279\/Apple-Mac-performance-features-boost-business-appeal) *and explore what* [*role Apple TV can serve within a business*](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/tip\/What-role-can-Apple-TV-serve-within-a-business)*. Learn how* [*to support Mac computers in Windows environments*](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchenterprisedesktop\/tip\/How-to-support-Mac-OS-X-and-Linux-in-Windows-environments) *and check out a* [*guide to enrolling Apple devices in Jamf*](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/tip\/A-guide-to-enrolling-Apple-devices-in-Jamf)*.*\n\n#### Continue Reading About Apple\n- [Apple chases premium market with iPhone 14](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/news\/252524731\/Apple-chases-growing-premium-market-with-iPhone-14)\n\n- [Understanding the DaaS options for Macs](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchvirtualdesktop\/tip\/Understanding-the-DaaS-options-for-Macs)\n\n- [How to choose the right Mac for business](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchenterprisedesktop\/tip\/How-to-choose-the-right-Mac-for-business)\n\n- [How to sideload iOS apps and why it's dangerous](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchmobilecomputing\/opinion\/Did-you-know-how-easy-it-is-to-sideload-iOS-apps-to-your-iPhone)\n\n- [Apple, Microsoft, Google expand FIDO2 passwordless support](https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchsecurity\/feature\/Apple-Microsoft-Google-expand-FIDO2-passwordless-support)","meta_canonical":null}

3. Robots.txt Check

Query:

Response:

4. Spam/Ban Check

Query:

Response:

5. Seen Status Check

ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled

📄

INDEXABLE

✅

CRAWLED

7 hours ago

🤖

ROBOTS ALLOWED

Page Info Filters

Filter	Status	Condition	Details
HTTP status	PASS	`download_http_code = 200`	HTTP 200
Age cutoff	PASS	`download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH`	0 months ago
History drop	PASS	`isNull(history_drop_reason)`	No drop reason
Spam/ban	PASS	`fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0`	ml_spam_score=0
Canonical	PASS	`meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed`	Not set

Page Details

Property	Value
URL	https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Apple
Last Crawled	2026-04-11 01:35:05 (7 hours ago)
First Indexed	2022-04-06 22:09:21 (4 years ago)
HTTP Status Code	200
Meta Title	What is Apple? An products and history overview
Meta Description	Learn about Apple Inc., the computer/consumer electronics company famous for the iPhone, iPad, Mac computers, etc. Explore its product line and history.
Meta Canonical	null
Boilerpipe Text	Apple Inc. (formerly Apple Computer Inc.) is an American computer and consumer electronics company famous for creating the iPhone, iPad and Macintosh computers. Apple is one of the largest companies globally with a market cap of more than $3 trillion. Apple devices are renowned for their design aesthetic and attention to detail. Tight integration between hardware and software gives their systems a performance advantage over competitor systems with similar specifications. Apple rose to its position as a market leader by correctly positioning its products. They didn't invent personal computers , graphical user interfaces (GUIs), mp3 players, smartphones , smartwatches or tablets . Instead, they produced some of the first versions of these products that were refined, easy to use and well-designed, which led to wide market adoption. Apple desktop and mobile devices Apple product lines Apple offers numerous products and services. A few of its major offerings today include: Mac computer . The Macintosh , or Mac, is Apple's line of personal computers. Its main product types are the iMac all-in-one desktop, Mac mini standard desktop, Mac Studio media-focused desktop, Mac Pro professional production workstation desktop, MacBook Air consumer laptop and MacBook Pro professional laptop. MacBook Air laptop All Mac computers use the macOS operating system. Since 2020, they use the "M" series CPUs designed by Apple based on ARM architecture. These chips have been praised for their excellent performance and power efficiency. Mac computers are popular with students and creative professionals for their elevated style and ease of use. Computer programmers might also use them because the underlying operating system is based on Unix and is POSIX compatible. Due to the lack of built-in central management and high cost, Mac computers have historically been unpopular in the workplace. Still, the introduction of Zero Trust , BYOD and third-party tools such as Jamf have begun to make them more acceptable to IT administrators. iPhone and iPad. The iPhone is Apple's smartphone line, and the iPad is its tablet. The iPhone was the first smartphone to receive mass market adoption due to its ease of use, built-in app store and capacitive multitouch touchscreen. The iPhone uses the "A" series mobile CPU, and recent iPads use the same "M" series CPUs as Mac computers. Their operating systems iOS and iPadOS, are based on the same Unix kernel as macOS but have a touch-focused interface. Apple Watch. The Apple Watch is a smartwatch and fitness tracker. It can monitor health signals, such as ECG, blood oxygen and heart rate data. It can also act as a digital key, allowing users to unlock, lock and start compatible cars. The Apple Watch runs on the watchOS operating system. Apple AirPods. AirPods are wireless headphones that sync with Apple devices through Bluetooth. Apple users can listen to audio including music, movies and messages through AirPods. Additionally, users can take phone calls through AirPods and use Siri. The AirPods Pro 2 can be used as an over-the-counter hearing aid for those who do not suffer from severe hearing loss, but to use this feature, users need to take a test to analyze hearing loss. Apple TV. Apple TV is a television set-top box and streaming media device. AppleTV has voice control capabilities and can integrate with other Apple devices via Airplay. It also has video conferencing features and the ability to locate the Siri remote. The Apple TV runs on the tvOS operating system. Apple Airtag. The Apple Airtag is a small tracking device. Users can attach it to items they wish to track and see its location using the Find My app. The Airtag uses Bluetooth to establish its location by communicating with other devices in the Find My network. Vision Pro. The Apple Vision Pro is a mixed reality headset -- an augmented reality headset also capable of virtual reality. It was debuted at WWDC – Apple's annual developers conference -- in 2023, and it became available in all U.S. Apple Store locations and the Apple Store online on Feb. 2, 2024. It runs on the visionOS operating system, which displays apps using spatial computing . The user interface is controlled by eyes, hands and voice. Users can video conference, stream media and capture images using a three-dimensional camera. The headset has advanced eye tracking and optical identity features – called Optic ID -- for authentication and security. The Vision Pro supports Microsoft Word, Excel and Teams. It is available starting at $3,499, with 256GB of storage. Zeiss optical inserts are also available for this headset, at $99 for readers and $149 for prescriptions. Services. Apple also provides several services that seamlessly work with its products. Apple iCloud is a personal file storage and synchronization service. Apple Pay is a money payment system and a credit card provider. Apple TV+ is a media streaming service with movies and TV programming. Apple also provides other media under the iTunes store, Apple Music, Apple Books and other services. iMessage is an Apple device-specific instant messaging service that extends SMS for iPhones. Siri is a virtual assistant that answers questions and performs various tasks, such as making phone calls or sending messages. Apple Intelligence. Apple created its AI platform for generative AI capabilities across its products. Apple Intelligence integrates ChatGPT through Siri for more advanced answers. Users can use Apple Intelligence to manage schedules, enhance writing, summarize text from emails or messages, create custom emojis or images, enhance photos and create memory movies. Apple Intelligence will be integrated into iOS 18 and supported on devices such as iPhone 15 Pro and newer; iPad Air models with M1 or newer chips; and Mac models with M1 or newer chips. The iPhone 14 Pro and Max Apple Inc. history Apple Computer was founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak. The third founding member, Ronald Wayne, quickly sold his ownership to Jobs and Wozniak. Their first product was the Apple I microcomputer , which they built in Jobs' family garage. It was sold as a single board with CPU and RAM , but without other basic components such as a keyboard and monitor. The Apple II was introduced in 1977. It was a commercial success due to its ease of use, color graphics and VisiCalc, a spreadsheet program. Its popularity propelled Apple to become the leading computer manufacturer in America and led to one of the largest IPOs of its time. Steve Jobs became obsessed with GUIs after seeing Xerox's early Alto system. This led him to add a GUI to the next Apple system, the Apple Lisa. Under Jobs' direction, the Apple Lisa development went far over time and over budget, which led to his being removed as the head of the project. The Apple Lisa was eventually released in 1983 but was a commercial flop due to its high price and lack of software. Jobs moved to head development of the Macintosh computer. An advertisement heralded its release in 1984 during the Super Bowl with a dystopian 1984 theme, which was a direct challenge to the market leader IBM . This advertisement is widely considered one of the greatest ads ever shown on television. Despite this, the Macintosh had poor initial sales due to its high price and low performance. Apple iPad series The conflict between Steve Jobs and then Apple CEO John Sculley over the release of the Macintosh led to Jobs being removed from all duties by the board of directors. This caused Jobs to leave Apple and start a new company, NeXT computers. At about this time, Steve Wozniak also stepped down from a leadership role at Apple due to personal reasons. Despite the loss of its founding members, Apple continued to do well in the late 1980s and early 1990s. This was largely due to continuing sales of the Apple II and the eventual success of an upgraded Macintosh in the creative market. During this time, Adobe products, such as Photoshop and Publisher, and other high-quality digital publishing software were only available on Macintosh. Several factors led to Apple losing profitability, and almost going bankrupt in the mid-1990s. Apple experimented with releasing other consumer electronics products. The most disastrous of which was the Newton tablet. Apple also faced stiff competition from lower-cost Microsoft Windows-based PCs, especially with the release of Windows 95. The Macintosh operating system was also starting to show its age and did not properly support Multitasking. Desperate to return to profitability and find a new operating system for its computers, Apple purchased Steve Jobs' new company, NeXT in early 1997. Jobs was then named interim CEO of Apple after the former CEO was ousted in mid-1997. He was able to refocus Apple on its core computer business and save it from bankruptcy. In 1998 the iMac was introduced. It was designed by Jonathan Ive and was popular for its friendly colorful gumdrop shape. Apple also introduced video editing and CD/DVD mastering software, cementing Macintosh's role in digital media production. Mac OS X was released in 2001. It was based on the operating system work of NeXT and used the stable and secure BSD Unix kernel . Also, in 2001, Apple released the iPod to wide acclaim, establishing Apple's place as a trendsetter in consumer electronics. The iPhone was introduced in 2007, becoming one of the first popular smartphones. The next year App Store launched, allowing third-party developers to sell and market their apps to users. The iPhone was followed by the popular iPhone 4 and iPad in 2010. Evolution of the Apple iPhone In early 2011 Steve Jobs took a leave of absence; naming Tim Cook as the new CEO of Apple. Steve Jobs died on October 5, 2011. Apple has continued to release new products and expanded services in recent years. Apple has switched to using its own in-house designed CPUs, first in iPhone and now in its Macintosh line of computers. It also offers media streaming services through Apple TV+ and Apple Music. It is expected that Apple might enter new markets soon, with rumors that a virtual reality / augmented reality headset and a self-driving automobile in development. See how Apple Mac performance and features boost its appeal to business and explore what role Apple TV can serve within a business . Learn how to support Mac computers in Windows environments and check out a guide to enrolling Apple devices in Jamf . Continue Reading About Apple Apple chases premium market with iPhone 14 Understanding the DaaS options for Macs How to choose the right Mac for business How to sideload iOS apps and why it's dangerous Apple, Microsoft, Google expand FIDO2 passwordless support
Markdown	[WhatIs](https://www.techtarget.com/) Browse Definitions : - [A](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/A) - [B](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/B) - [C](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/C) - [D](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/D) - [E](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/E) - [F](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/F) - [G](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/G) - [H](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/H) - [I](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/I) - [J](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/J) - [K](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/K) - [L](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/L) - [M](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/M) - [N](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/N) - [O](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/O) - [P](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/P) - [Q](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/Q) - [R](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/R) - [S](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/S) - [T](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/T) - [U](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/U) - [V](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/V) - [W](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/W) - [X](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/X) - [Y](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/Y) - [Z](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/Z) - [\#](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definitions/0) [Login](https://www.techtarget.com/login?fromURL=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.techtarget.com%2Fwhatis%2Fdefinition%2FApple) [Register](https://www.techtarget.com/register?fromURL=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.techtarget.com%2Fwhatis%2Fdefinition%2FApple) - [TechTarget Network](https://www.techtarget.com/) - [Tech Accelerator](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/techaccelerators) - [News](https://www.techtarget.com/news/) [RSS](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/rss) - [WhatIs](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/) - [Browse Definitions Personal computing](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Personal-Computing) [IT management](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/IT-Management) View All - [Certifications](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/IT-Certifications) - [IT career paths](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Career-Paths) - [IT Operations](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/IT-Operations) - [Project management](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Project-Management) - [Technical support](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Computing-Fundamentals) [Business software](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Enterprise-Business-Software) View All - [ERP](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Business-and-ERP) - [HR management](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/HR-management) - [Marketing and CX](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Marketing-and-customer-experience) - [Microsoft](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Microsoft) - [Software applications](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Software-Applications) [Cloud computing](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Cloud-computing) View All - [Internet applications](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Internet-applications) - [Internet of Things](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Internet-of-Things) - [Web services](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Web-services-SOA) [Computer science](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Computer-Science) View All - [Electronics](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Electronics) - [Internet technologies](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Internet-Technologies) - [IT standards and organizations](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/IT-Standards-Organizations) - [Microprocessors](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Microprocessors) - [Robotics](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Robotics) [Data analytics and AI](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Business-intelligence-business-analytics) View All - [Algorithms](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Algorithms) - [Artificial intelligence](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Artificial-intelligence) - [Data and data management](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Data-and-Data-Management) - [Database management](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Database) [Data centers](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Data-centers) View All - [Data backup and disaster recovery](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Backup-and-Recovery) - [Data center management](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Data-center-management) - [Linux](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Linux) - [Operating systems](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Operating-Systems) - [Storage Admin](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Storage-Management) - [Storage and Data Mgmt](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Storage-and-Data-Management) - [Virtualization](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Virtualization) [IT management](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/IT-Management) View All - [Certifications](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/IT-Certifications) - [IT career paths](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Career-Paths) - [IT Operations](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/IT-Operations) - [Personal computing](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Personal-Computing) - [Project management](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Project-Management) - [Technical support](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Computing-Fundamentals) [Networking](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Networking) View All - [High-speed networks](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/High-Speed-Networks) - [Network Admin](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Network-Administration) - [Network hardware](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Network-Hardware) - [Networking and communications](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Networking-and-Communications) - [Wireless and mobile](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Wireless-Mobile) [Security](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Security) View All - [Authentication and access control](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Authentication) - [Compliance, risk and governance](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Compliance) - [Network security](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Network-Security) - [Security Admin](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Security-Management) - [Threat management](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Security-Threats-and-Countermeasures) [Software development](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Software-Development) View All - [Agile software development](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Agile-Scrum-XP-Programming) - [AppDev](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Application-Development) - [DevOps](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/DevOps) - [Programming](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Programming) Please select a category - Business software - Cloud computing - Computer science - Data analytics and AI - Data centers - IT management - Networking - Security - Software development - [Browse Features Resources](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/resources) - [Business strategies](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/resources/Business-Strategies) - [Career resources](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/resources/Career-Resources) - [Emerging tech](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/resources/Emerging-Tech) - [Tech explainers](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/resources/Tech-Explainers) - Follow: - [Home](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/) - [Personal computing](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossary/Personal-Computing) Definition # Apple - Share this item with your network: ![Gavin Wright](https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/rms/onlineimages/wright_gavin.jpg) By - [Gavin Wright](https://www.techtarget.com/contributor/Gavin-Wright) Published: Sep 11, 2024 ## What is Apple? Apple Inc. (formerly Apple Computer Inc.) is an American computer and consumer electronics company famous for creating the iPhone, iPad and Macintosh computers. Apple is one of the largest companies globally with a market cap of more than \$3 trillion. Apple devices are renowned for their design aesthetic and attention to detail. Tight integration between [hardware](https://www.techtarget.com/searchnetworking/definition/hardware) and [software](https://www.techtarget.com/searchapparchitecture/definition/software) gives their [systems](https://www.techtarget.com/searchwindowsserver/definition/system) a performance advantage over competitor systems with similar specifications. Apple rose to its position as a market leader by correctly positioning its products. They didn't invent [personal computers](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/personal-computer-PC), graphical user interfaces (GUIs), [mp3](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/MP3-MPEG-1-Audio-Layer-3) players, [smartphones](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/smartphone), [smartwatches](https://www.techtarget.com/iotagenda/definition/smartwatch) or [tablets](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/tablet-PC). Instead, they produced some of the first versions of these products that were refined, easy to use and well-designed, which led to wide market adoption. ![Photo of Apple devices](https://www.techtarget.com/rms/onlineImages/access_0318-apple_products_mobile.png) Apple desktop and mobile devices ## Apple product lines Apple offers numerous products and services. A few of its major offerings today include: Mac computer. The [Macintosh](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Macintosh), or Mac, is Apple's line of personal computers. Its main product types are the iMac all-in-one desktop, Mac mini standard desktop, Mac Studio media-focused desktop, Mac Pro professional production workstation desktop, MacBook Air consumer laptop and MacBook Pro professional laptop. ![Photo of MacBook Air](https://www.techtarget.com/rms/onlineimages/macbook_air_m2-f_mobile.jpg) MacBook Air laptop All Mac computers use the [macOS](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Mac-OS) operating system. Since 2020, they use the "M" series CPUs designed by Apple based on [ARM](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/ARM-processor) architecture. These chips have been praised for their excellent performance and power efficiency. Mac computers are popular with students and creative professionals for their elevated style and ease of use. Computer programmers might also use them because the underlying operating system is based on Unix and is [POSIX](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/POSIX-Portable-Operating-System-Interface) compatible. Due to the lack of built-in central management and high cost, Mac computers have historically been unpopular in the workplace. Still, the introduction of [Zero Trust](https://www.techtarget.com/searchsecurity/definition/zero-trust-model-zero-trust-network), [BYOD](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/BYOD-bring-your-own-device) and third-party tools such as [Jamf](https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterprisedesktop/tip/Explore-Jamfs-products-and-features-for-Apple-management) have begun to make them more acceptable to IT administrators. iPhone and iPad. The [iPhone](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/iPhone) is Apple's smartphone line, and the [iPad](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/iPad) is its tablet. The iPhone was the first smartphone to receive mass market adoption due to its ease of use, built-in app store and [capacitive](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/capacitive-touch-screen) multitouch touchscreen. The iPhone uses the "A" series mobile CPU, and recent iPads use the same "M" series CPUs as Mac computers. Their operating systems [iOS](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/iOS) and iPadOS, are based on the same Unix kernel as macOS but have a touch-focused interface. Apple Watch. The [Apple Watch](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/Apple-Watch) is a smartwatch and fitness tracker. It can monitor health signals, such as ECG, blood oxygen and heart rate data. It can also act as a digital key, allowing users to unlock, lock and start compatible cars. The Apple Watch runs on the [watchOS](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/Apple-Watch-OS-Apple-Watch-operating-system) operating system. Apple AirPods.AirPods are wireless headphones that sync with Apple devices through Bluetooth. Apple users can listen to audio including music, movies and messages through AirPods. Additionally, users can take phone calls through AirPods and use Siri. The AirPods Pro 2 can be used as an over-the-counter hearing aid for those who do not suffer from severe hearing loss, but to use this feature, users need to take a test to analyze hearing loss. Apple TV. [Apple TV](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/Apple-TV-Apple-TV-4) is a television set-top box and streaming media device. AppleTV has voice control capabilities and can integrate with other Apple devices via Airplay. It also has video conferencing features and the ability to locate the Siri remote. The Apple TV runs on the [tvOS](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/tvOS) operating system. Apple Airtag. The Apple Airtag is a small tracking device. Users can attach it to items they wish to track and see its location using the Find My app. The Airtag uses Bluetooth to establish its location by communicating with other devices in the Find My network. Vision Pro. The Apple Vision Pro is a [mixed reality](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/mixed-reality) headset -- an augmented reality headset also capable of virtual reality. It was [debuted at WWDC](https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366539415/Apples-3500-headset-offers-VR-at-a-premium) – Apple's annual developers conference -- in 2023, and it became available in all U.S. Apple Store locations and the Apple Store online on Feb. 2, 2024. It runs on the visionOS operating system, which displays apps using [spatial computing](https://www.techtarget.com/searchcio/definition/spatial-computing). The user interface is controlled by eyes, hands and voice. Users can video conference, stream media and capture images using a three-dimensional camera. The headset has advanced eye tracking and optical identity features – called Optic ID -- for authentication and security. The Vision Pro supports Microsoft Word, Excel and Teams. It is available starting at \$3,499, with 256GB of storage. Zeiss optical inserts are also available for this headset, at \$99 for readers and \$149 for prescriptions. Services. Apple also provides several services that seamlessly work with its products. Apple [iCloud](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/iCloud) is a personal file storage and synchronization service. Apple Pay is a money payment system and a credit card provider. Apple TV+ is a media streaming service with movies and TV programming. Apple also provides other media under the iTunes store, Apple Music, Apple Books and other services. iMessage is an Apple device-specific instant messaging service that extends [SMS](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/Short-Message-Service) for iPhones. [Siri](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/Siri) is a virtual assistant that answers questions and performs various tasks, such as making phone calls or sending messages. Apple Intelligence. Apple created its AI platform for [generative AI](https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterpriseai/definition/generative-AI) capabilities across its products. [Apple Intelligence](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Apple-Intelligence) integrates ChatGPT through Siri for more advanced answers. Users can use Apple Intelligence to manage schedules, enhance writing, summarize text from emails or messages, create custom emojis or images, enhance photos and create memory movies. Apple Intelligence will be integrated into iOS 18 and supported on devices such as iPhone 15 Pro and newer; iPad Air models with M1 or newer chips; and Mac models with M1 or newer chips. ![Photo of Apple iPhone 14 Pro and Max](https://www.techtarget.com/rms/onlineimages/Apple_iPhone_14_Pro_iPhone_14_Pro_Max_Dynamic_Island_demo_3up_mobile.jpg) The iPhone 14 Pro and Max ## Apple Inc. history Apple Computer was founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak. The third founding member, Ronald Wayne, quickly sold his ownership to Jobs and Wozniak. Their first product was the Apple I [microcomputer](https://www.techtarget.com/iotagenda/definition/microcomputer), which they built in Jobs' family garage. It was sold as a single board with [CPU](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/processor) and [RAM](https://www.techtarget.com/searchstorage/definition/RAM-random-access-memory), but without other basic components such as a keyboard and monitor. The Apple II was introduced in 1977. It was a commercial success due to its ease of use, color graphics and VisiCalc, a spreadsheet program. Its popularity propelled Apple to become the leading computer manufacturer in America and led to one of the largest IPOs of its time. Steve Jobs became obsessed with GUIs after seeing Xerox's early Alto system. This led him to add a GUI to the next Apple system, the Apple Lisa. Under Jobs' direction, the Apple Lisa development went far over time and over budget, which led to his being removed as the head of the project. The Apple Lisa was eventually released in 1983 but was a commercial flop due to its high price and lack of software. Jobs moved to head development of the Macintosh computer. An advertisement heralded its release in 1984 during the Super Bowl with a dystopian 1984 theme, which was a direct challenge to the market leader [IBM](https://www.techtarget.com/searchitchannel/definition/IBM-International-Business-Machines). This advertisement is widely considered one of the greatest ads ever shown on television. Despite this, the Macintosh had poor initial sales due to its high price and low performance. ![Photo of Apple iPad series of tablets](https://www.techtarget.com/rms/onlineimages/apple_ipad_air_availability_ipad_family_10162020_half_column_mobile.jpg) Apple iPad series The conflict between Steve Jobs and then Apple CEO John Sculley over the release of the Macintosh led to Jobs being removed from all duties by the board of directors. This caused Jobs to leave Apple and start a new company, NeXT computers. At about this time, Steve Wozniak also stepped down from a leadership role at Apple due to personal reasons. Despite the loss of its founding members, Apple continued to do well in the late 1980s and early 1990s. This was largely due to continuing sales of the Apple II and the eventual success of an upgraded Macintosh in the creative market. During this time, Adobe products, such as [Photoshop](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Photoshop) and Publisher, and other high-quality [digital publishing](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/desktop-publishing) software were only available on Macintosh. Several factors led to Apple losing profitability, and almost going bankrupt in the mid-1990s. Apple experimented with releasing other consumer electronics products. The most disastrous of which was the Newton tablet. Apple also faced stiff competition from lower-cost Microsoft Windows-based PCs, especially with the release of [Windows](https://www.techtarget.com/searchwindowsserver/definition/Windows) 95. The Macintosh operating system was also starting to show its age and did not properly support Multitasking. Desperate to return to profitability and find a new operating system for its computers, Apple purchased Steve Jobs' new company, NeXT in early 1997. Jobs was then named interim CEO of Apple after the former CEO was ousted in mid-1997. He was able to refocus Apple on its core computer business and save it from bankruptcy. In 1998 the iMac was introduced. It was designed by Jonathan Ive and was popular for its friendly colorful gumdrop shape. Apple also introduced video editing and CD/DVD mastering software, cementing Macintosh's role in digital media production. Mac OS X was released in 2001. It was based on the operating system work of NeXT and used the stable and secure BSD Unix [kernel](https://www.techtarget.com/searchdatacenter/definition/kernel). Also, in 2001, Apple released the iPod to wide acclaim, establishing Apple's place as a trendsetter in consumer electronics. The iPhone was introduced in 2007, becoming one of the first popular smartphones. The next year App Store launched, allowing third-party developers to sell and market their apps to users. The iPhone was followed by the popular iPhone 4 and iPad in 2010. ![Chart of Apple's iPhone evolution](https://www.techtarget.com/rms/onlineimages/evolution_of_apple_iphone-f_mobile.png) Evolution of the Apple iPhone In early 2011 Steve Jobs took a leave of absence; naming Tim Cook as the new CEO of Apple. Steve Jobs died on October 5, 2011. Apple has continued to release new products and expanded services in recent years. Apple has switched to using its own in-house designed CPUs, first in iPhone and now in its Macintosh line of computers. It also offers media [streaming services](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/video-streaming-service) through Apple TV+ and Apple Music. It is expected that Apple might enter new markets soon, with rumors that a [virtual reality](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/virtual-reality)/[augmented reality](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/augmented-reality-AR) headset and a [self-driving automobile](https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterpriseai/definition/driverless-car) in development. See how [Apple Mac performance and features boost its appeal to business](https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterprisedesktop/news/252521279/Apple-Mac-performance-features-boost-business-appeal) and explore what [role Apple TV can serve within a business](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/tip/What-role-can-Apple-TV-serve-within-a-business). Learn how [to support Mac computers in Windows environments](https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterprisedesktop/tip/How-to-support-Mac-OS-X-and-Linux-in-Windows-environments) and check out a [guide to enrolling Apple devices in Jamf](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/tip/A-guide-to-enrolling-Apple-devices-in-Jamf). #### Continue Reading About Apple - [Apple chases premium market with iPhone 14](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/news/252524731/Apple-chases-growing-premium-market-with-iPhone-14) - [Understanding the DaaS options for Macs](https://www.techtarget.com/searchvirtualdesktop/tip/Understanding-the-DaaS-options-for-Macs) - [How to choose the right Mac for business](https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterprisedesktop/tip/How-to-choose-the-right-Mac-for-business) - [How to sideload iOS apps and why it's dangerous](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/opinion/Did-you-know-how-easy-it-is-to-sideload-iOS-apps-to-your-iPhone) - [Apple, Microsoft, Google expand FIDO2 passwordless support](https://www.techtarget.com/searchsecurity/feature/Apple-Microsoft-Google-expand-FIDO2-passwordless-support) #### Related Terms [What is an IP address (Internet Protocol address)?](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/IP-address-Internet-Protocol-Address) An Internet Protocol (IP) address is a unique numerical identifier for every device or network that connects to the internet. [See complete definition](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/IP-address-Internet-Protocol-Address) [What is Microsoft OneDrive and how do you use it?](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/Microsoft-OneDrive) OneDrive is Microsoft's online cloud storage service. [See complete definition](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/Microsoft-OneDrive) [What is user-generated content?](https://www.techtarget.com/searchcio/definition/user-generated-content-UGC) User-generated content (UGC) is published information that an unpaid contributor provides to a website. [See complete definition](https://www.techtarget.com/searchcio/definition/user-generated-content-UGC) ## New & Updated Definitions - [What is compensation management?](https://www.techtarget.com/searchhrsoftware/definition/compensation-management) Compensation management is the discipline and process for determining employees' appropriate pay, incentives, rewards, bonuses and benefits. [See More.](https://www.techtarget.com/searchhrsoftware/definition/compensation-management) - [What is talent management? Definition, basics and strategy](https://www.techtarget.com/searchhrsoftware/definition/talent-management) - [What is core HR (core human resources)?](https://www.techtarget.com/searchhrsoftware/definition/core-HR-core-human-resources) - [What is HRIS (human resources information system)?](https://www.techtarget.com/searchhrsoftware/definition/HRIS) - [What is manager self-service?](https://www.techtarget.com/searchhrsoftware/definition/manager-self-service) - [What is HR automation? Examples, benefits and challenges](https://www.techtarget.com/searchhrsoftware/definition/HR-automation) - [material requirements planning (MRP)](https://www.techtarget.com/searcherp/definition/material-requirements-planning-MRP) - [What is SaaS ERP?](https://www.techtarget.com/searcherp/definition/SaaS-ERP-software-as-a-service-ERP-hosting) - [What is HR service delivery?](https://www.techtarget.com/searchhrsoftware/definition/HR-service-delivery) Latest TechTarget resources - [Networking](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Apple) - [Security](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Apple) - [CIO](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Apple) - [HR Software](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Apple) - [Customer Experience](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Apple) [Search Networking](https://www.techtarget.com/searchnetworking/) - [What is multi-access edge computing? Benefits and use cases](https://www.techtarget.com/searchnetworking/definition/What-is-multi-access-edge-computing-Benefits-and-use-cases) Multi-access edge computing (MEC) is a network architecture concept that brings cloud computing capabilities and IT services ... - [What is 5G?](https://www.techtarget.com/searchnetworking/definition/5G) Fifth-generation wireless or 5G is a global standard and technology for wireless and telecommunications networks. - [What is a small cell in wireless networks?](https://www.techtarget.com/searchnetworking/definition/small-cell) A small cell is a type of low-power cellular radio access point or base station that provides wireless service within a limited ... [Search Security](https://www.techtarget.com/searchsecurity/) - [What is identity and access management? Guide to IAM](https://www.techtarget.com/searchsecurity/definition/identity-access-management-IAM-system) No longer just a good idea, IAM is a crucial piece of the cybersecurity puzzle. It's how an organization regulates access to ... - [What is data masking?](https://www.techtarget.com/searchsecurity/definition/data-masking) Data masking is a security technique that modifies sensitive data in a data set so it can be used safely in a non-production ... - [What is antivirus software?](https://www.techtarget.com/searchsecurity/definition/antivirus-software) Antivirus software (antivirus program) is a security program designed to prevent, detect, search and remove viruses and other ... [Search CIO](https://www.techtarget.com/searchcio/) - [What is a chief data officer (CDO)?](https://www.techtarget.com/searchcio/definition/chief-data-officer-CDO) A chief data officer (CDO) in many organizations is a C-level executive whose position has evolved into a range of strategic data... - [What is user-generated content?](https://www.techtarget.com/searchcio/definition/user-generated-content-UGC) User-generated content (UGC) is published information that an unpaid contributor provides to a website. - [What is business process outsourcing (BPO)?](https://www.techtarget.com/searchcio/definition/business-process-outsourcing) Business process outsourcing (BPO) is a business practice in which an organization contracts with an external service provider to... [Search HRSoftware](https://www.techtarget.com/searchhrsoftware/) - [What is compensation management?](https://www.techtarget.com/searchhrsoftware/definition/compensation-management) Compensation management is the discipline and process for determining employees' appropriate pay, incentives, rewards, bonuses ... - [What is talent management? Definition, basics and strategy](https://www.techtarget.com/searchhrsoftware/definition/talent-management) Talent management is a strategic approach organizations use to attract, develop, retain, and optimize employees. - [What is core HR (core human resources)?](https://www.techtarget.com/searchhrsoftware/definition/core-HR-core-human-resources) Core HR (core human resources) is an umbrella term that refers to the essential, mandatory and fundamental tasks and functions of... [Search Customer Experience](https://www.techtarget.com/searchcustomerexperience/) - [What are virtual agents and how are they being used?](https://www.techtarget.com/searchcustomerexperience/definition/virtual-agent) A virtual agent is an AI-powered software application or service that interacts with humans or other digital systems in a ... - [Customer acquisition cost (CAC): How to calculate and reduce it](https://www.techtarget.com/searchcustomerexperience/definition/customer-acquisition-cost) Customer acquisition cost (CAC) is the cost associated with convincing a consumer to buy your product or service, including ... - [What is direct marketing?](https://www.techtarget.com/searchcustomerexperience/definition/direct-marketing) Direct marketing is a type of advertising campaign that seeks to elicit an action (such as an order, a visit to a store or ... - [Browse by Topic](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/glossaries) - [Browse Resources](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/resources) - [About Us](https://www.informatechtarget.com/editorial/) - [Meet The Editors](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/about/Meet-the-Editors) - [Editorial Ethics Policy](https://www.techtarget.com/techtarget-editorial-ethics-policy) - [Contact Us](https://www.informatechtarget.com/contact-us/) - [Advertisers](https://www.informatechtarget.com/for-advertisers/) - [Business Partners](https://www.informatechtarget.com/partner-with-us/) - [Events](https://www.brighttalk.com/summits) - [Media Kit](https://www.informatechtarget.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/TechTarget-Media-Kit-Handout-with-product-descriptions.pdf) - [Corporate Site](https://www.informatechtarget.com/) - [Reprints](https://licensing.ygsgroup.com/ygspublishersolutions/) All Rights Reserved. [Copyright 1999 - 2026](https://www.informatechtarget.com/terms-of-use), TechTarget [Privacy Policy](https://www.informatechtarget.com/privacy-policy/) [Cookie Preferences](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Apple) [Cookie Preferences](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Apple) [Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information](https://techtarget.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/requests/new?ticket_form_id=360004852434) Close ![](https://go.techtarget.com/clicktrack-r/activity/activity.gif?activityTypeId=16&t=2240113859&t2=2240113842&t3=450280953&t4=2240113844&t5=299657&t6=2240036608&t7=2240113860&a=2026-04-10%2013:44:08&g=2240115167&c=normal&auid=d9928471-6311-4b72-9928-ca439dc81d42&r=235833)
Readable Markdown	Apple Inc. (formerly Apple Computer Inc.) is an American computer and consumer electronics company famous for creating the iPhone, iPad and Macintosh computers. Apple is one of the largest companies globally with a market cap of more than \$3 trillion. Apple devices are renowned for their design aesthetic and attention to detail. Tight integration between [hardware](https://www.techtarget.com/searchnetworking/definition/hardware) and [software](https://www.techtarget.com/searchapparchitecture/definition/software) gives their [systems](https://www.techtarget.com/searchwindowsserver/definition/system) a performance advantage over competitor systems with similar specifications. Apple rose to its position as a market leader by correctly positioning its products. They didn't invent [personal computers](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/personal-computer-PC), graphical user interfaces (GUIs), [mp3](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/MP3-MPEG-1-Audio-Layer-3) players, [smartphones](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/smartphone), [smartwatches](https://www.techtarget.com/iotagenda/definition/smartwatch) or [tablets](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/tablet-PC). Instead, they produced some of the first versions of these products that were refined, easy to use and well-designed, which led to wide market adoption. ![Photo of Apple devices](https://www.techtarget.com/rms/onlineImages/access_0318-apple_products_mobile.png) Apple desktop and mobile devices ## Apple product lines Apple offers numerous products and services. A few of its major offerings today include: Mac computer. The [Macintosh](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Macintosh), or Mac, is Apple's line of personal computers. Its main product types are the iMac all-in-one desktop, Mac mini standard desktop, Mac Studio media-focused desktop, Mac Pro professional production workstation desktop, MacBook Air consumer laptop and MacBook Pro professional laptop. ![Photo of MacBook Air](https://www.techtarget.com/rms/onlineimages/macbook_air_m2-f_mobile.jpg) MacBook Air laptop All Mac computers use the [macOS](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Mac-OS) operating system. Since 2020, they use the "M" series CPUs designed by Apple based on [ARM](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/ARM-processor) architecture. These chips have been praised for their excellent performance and power efficiency. Mac computers are popular with students and creative professionals for their elevated style and ease of use. Computer programmers might also use them because the underlying operating system is based on Unix and is [POSIX](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/POSIX-Portable-Operating-System-Interface) compatible. Due to the lack of built-in central management and high cost, Mac computers have historically been unpopular in the workplace. Still, the introduction of [Zero Trust](https://www.techtarget.com/searchsecurity/definition/zero-trust-model-zero-trust-network), [BYOD](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/BYOD-bring-your-own-device) and third-party tools such as [Jamf](https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterprisedesktop/tip/Explore-Jamfs-products-and-features-for-Apple-management) have begun to make them more acceptable to IT administrators. iPhone and iPad. The [iPhone](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/iPhone) is Apple's smartphone line, and the [iPad](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/iPad) is its tablet. The iPhone was the first smartphone to receive mass market adoption due to its ease of use, built-in app store and [capacitive](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/capacitive-touch-screen) multitouch touchscreen. The iPhone uses the "A" series mobile CPU, and recent iPads use the same "M" series CPUs as Mac computers. Their operating systems [iOS](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/iOS) and iPadOS, are based on the same Unix kernel as macOS but have a touch-focused interface. Apple Watch. The [Apple Watch](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/Apple-Watch) is a smartwatch and fitness tracker. It can monitor health signals, such as ECG, blood oxygen and heart rate data. It can also act as a digital key, allowing users to unlock, lock and start compatible cars. The Apple Watch runs on the [watchOS](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/Apple-Watch-OS-Apple-Watch-operating-system) operating system. Apple AirPods.AirPods are wireless headphones that sync with Apple devices through Bluetooth. Apple users can listen to audio including music, movies and messages through AirPods. Additionally, users can take phone calls through AirPods and use Siri. The AirPods Pro 2 can be used as an over-the-counter hearing aid for those who do not suffer from severe hearing loss, but to use this feature, users need to take a test to analyze hearing loss. Apple TV. [Apple TV](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/Apple-TV-Apple-TV-4) is a television set-top box and streaming media device. AppleTV has voice control capabilities and can integrate with other Apple devices via Airplay. It also has video conferencing features and the ability to locate the Siri remote. The Apple TV runs on the [tvOS](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/tvOS) operating system. Apple Airtag. The Apple Airtag is a small tracking device. Users can attach it to items they wish to track and see its location using the Find My app. The Airtag uses Bluetooth to establish its location by communicating with other devices in the Find My network. Vision Pro. The Apple Vision Pro is a [mixed reality](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/mixed-reality) headset -- an augmented reality headset also capable of virtual reality. It was [debuted at WWDC](https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366539415/Apples-3500-headset-offers-VR-at-a-premium) – Apple's annual developers conference -- in 2023, and it became available in all U.S. Apple Store locations and the Apple Store online on Feb. 2, 2024. It runs on the visionOS operating system, which displays apps using [spatial computing](https://www.techtarget.com/searchcio/definition/spatial-computing). The user interface is controlled by eyes, hands and voice. Users can video conference, stream media and capture images using a three-dimensional camera. The headset has advanced eye tracking and optical identity features – called Optic ID -- for authentication and security. The Vision Pro supports Microsoft Word, Excel and Teams. It is available starting at \$3,499, with 256GB of storage. Zeiss optical inserts are also available for this headset, at \$99 for readers and \$149 for prescriptions. Services. Apple also provides several services that seamlessly work with its products. Apple [iCloud](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/iCloud) is a personal file storage and synchronization service. Apple Pay is a money payment system and a credit card provider. Apple TV+ is a media streaming service with movies and TV programming. Apple also provides other media under the iTunes store, Apple Music, Apple Books and other services. iMessage is an Apple device-specific instant messaging service that extends [SMS](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/Short-Message-Service) for iPhones. [Siri](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/Siri) is a virtual assistant that answers questions and performs various tasks, such as making phone calls or sending messages. Apple Intelligence. Apple created its AI platform for [generative AI](https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterpriseai/definition/generative-AI) capabilities across its products. [Apple Intelligence](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Apple-Intelligence) integrates ChatGPT through Siri for more advanced answers. Users can use Apple Intelligence to manage schedules, enhance writing, summarize text from emails or messages, create custom emojis or images, enhance photos and create memory movies. Apple Intelligence will be integrated into iOS 18 and supported on devices such as iPhone 15 Pro and newer; iPad Air models with M1 or newer chips; and Mac models with M1 or newer chips. ![Photo of Apple iPhone 14 Pro and Max](https://www.techtarget.com/rms/onlineimages/Apple_iPhone_14_Pro_iPhone_14_Pro_Max_Dynamic_Island_demo_3up_mobile.jpg) The iPhone 14 Pro and Max ## Apple Inc. history Apple Computer was founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak. The third founding member, Ronald Wayne, quickly sold his ownership to Jobs and Wozniak. Their first product was the Apple I [microcomputer](https://www.techtarget.com/iotagenda/definition/microcomputer), which they built in Jobs' family garage. It was sold as a single board with [CPU](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/processor) and [RAM](https://www.techtarget.com/searchstorage/definition/RAM-random-access-memory), but without other basic components such as a keyboard and monitor. The Apple II was introduced in 1977. It was a commercial success due to its ease of use, color graphics and VisiCalc, a spreadsheet program. Its popularity propelled Apple to become the leading computer manufacturer in America and led to one of the largest IPOs of its time. Steve Jobs became obsessed with GUIs after seeing Xerox's early Alto system. This led him to add a GUI to the next Apple system, the Apple Lisa. Under Jobs' direction, the Apple Lisa development went far over time and over budget, which led to his being removed as the head of the project. The Apple Lisa was eventually released in 1983 but was a commercial flop due to its high price and lack of software. Jobs moved to head development of the Macintosh computer. An advertisement heralded its release in 1984 during the Super Bowl with a dystopian 1984 theme, which was a direct challenge to the market leader [IBM](https://www.techtarget.com/searchitchannel/definition/IBM-International-Business-Machines). This advertisement is widely considered one of the greatest ads ever shown on television. Despite this, the Macintosh had poor initial sales due to its high price and low performance. ![Photo of Apple iPad series of tablets](https://www.techtarget.com/rms/onlineimages/apple_ipad_air_availability_ipad_family_10162020_half_column_mobile.jpg) Apple iPad series The conflict between Steve Jobs and then Apple CEO John Sculley over the release of the Macintosh led to Jobs being removed from all duties by the board of directors. This caused Jobs to leave Apple and start a new company, NeXT computers. At about this time, Steve Wozniak also stepped down from a leadership role at Apple due to personal reasons. Despite the loss of its founding members, Apple continued to do well in the late 1980s and early 1990s. This was largely due to continuing sales of the Apple II and the eventual success of an upgraded Macintosh in the creative market. During this time, Adobe products, such as [Photoshop](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Photoshop) and Publisher, and other high-quality [digital publishing](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/desktop-publishing) software were only available on Macintosh. Several factors led to Apple losing profitability, and almost going bankrupt in the mid-1990s. Apple experimented with releasing other consumer electronics products. The most disastrous of which was the Newton tablet. Apple also faced stiff competition from lower-cost Microsoft Windows-based PCs, especially with the release of [Windows](https://www.techtarget.com/searchwindowsserver/definition/Windows) 95. The Macintosh operating system was also starting to show its age and did not properly support Multitasking. Desperate to return to profitability and find a new operating system for its computers, Apple purchased Steve Jobs' new company, NeXT in early 1997. Jobs was then named interim CEO of Apple after the former CEO was ousted in mid-1997. He was able to refocus Apple on its core computer business and save it from bankruptcy. In 1998 the iMac was introduced. It was designed by Jonathan Ive and was popular for its friendly colorful gumdrop shape. Apple also introduced video editing and CD/DVD mastering software, cementing Macintosh's role in digital media production. Mac OS X was released in 2001. It was based on the operating system work of NeXT and used the stable and secure BSD Unix [kernel](https://www.techtarget.com/searchdatacenter/definition/kernel). Also, in 2001, Apple released the iPod to wide acclaim, establishing Apple's place as a trendsetter in consumer electronics. The iPhone was introduced in 2007, becoming one of the first popular smartphones. The next year App Store launched, allowing third-party developers to sell and market their apps to users. The iPhone was followed by the popular iPhone 4 and iPad in 2010. ![Chart of Apple's iPhone evolution](https://www.techtarget.com/rms/onlineimages/evolution_of_apple_iphone-f_mobile.png) Evolution of the Apple iPhone In early 2011 Steve Jobs took a leave of absence; naming Tim Cook as the new CEO of Apple. Steve Jobs died on October 5, 2011. Apple has continued to release new products and expanded services in recent years. Apple has switched to using its own in-house designed CPUs, first in iPhone and now in its Macintosh line of computers. It also offers media [streaming services](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/video-streaming-service) through Apple TV+ and Apple Music. It is expected that Apple might enter new markets soon, with rumors that a [virtual reality](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/virtual-reality)/[augmented reality](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/augmented-reality-AR) headset and a [self-driving automobile](https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterpriseai/definition/driverless-car) in development. See how [Apple Mac performance and features boost its appeal to business](https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterprisedesktop/news/252521279/Apple-Mac-performance-features-boost-business-appeal) and explore what [role Apple TV can serve within a business](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/tip/What-role-can-Apple-TV-serve-within-a-business). Learn how [to support Mac computers in Windows environments](https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterprisedesktop/tip/How-to-support-Mac-OS-X-and-Linux-in-Windows-environments) and check out a [guide to enrolling Apple devices in Jamf](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/tip/A-guide-to-enrolling-Apple-devices-in-Jamf). #### Continue Reading About Apple - [Apple chases premium market with iPhone 14](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/news/252524731/Apple-chases-growing-premium-market-with-iPhone-14) - [Understanding the DaaS options for Macs](https://www.techtarget.com/searchvirtualdesktop/tip/Understanding-the-DaaS-options-for-Macs) - [How to choose the right Mac for business](https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterprisedesktop/tip/How-to-choose-the-right-Mac-for-business) - [How to sideload iOS apps and why it's dangerous](https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/opinion/Did-you-know-how-easy-it-is-to-sideload-iOS-apps-to-your-iPhone) - [Apple, Microsoft, Google expand FIDO2 passwordless support](https://www.techtarget.com/searchsecurity/feature/Apple-Microsoft-Google-expand-FIDO2-passwordless-support)
Shard	182 (laksa)
Root Hash	17789036595607440382
Unparsed URL	com,techtarget!www,/whatis/definition/Apple s443