The presentation will commemorate the 50th anniversary of Apple Inc. by tracing its evolution from a small garage startup in 1976 into one of the most influential technology companies in history. Framed around the spirit of innovation and “thinking differently,” the talk will highlight Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs, the Apple I and Apple II, and the rise of graphical computing through the Lisa and Macintosh. Particular attention will be given to Apple’s impact on communications: the iPod and iTunes transformed digital music, while the iPhone and App Store helped reinvent the mobile phone as the modern smartphone and fundamentally changed how people access and use wireless networks. The talk will also cover Apple’s near-collapse in the 1990s, Jobs’ remarkable return, and the company’s continued evolution under Tim Cook. Along the way, we’ll consider what has made Apple different: simplicity, integration of hardware and software, commitment to design, and a willingness to challenge convention.

I hope to see you all there!  As always, pizza will be provided, and all are welcome to join!

Best,

Aidan M. Kern, N3AMK