In the ever-evolving world of technology, certain milestones stand out as significant turning points that have shaped the course of computing. The 35th anniversary of the Next Computer, launched in 1988, is one such milestone. Steve Jobs’ creation, the Next Computer, may not have achieved the same commercial success as the Macintosh or iPhone, but its influence on the computing landscape is undeniable. Join us as we delve into why the Next Computer was so important for computing and how its legacy continues to shape the technology we use today.
1. Innovation in Design
The Next Computer was a masterpiece of design. Steve Jobs, known for his obsession with detail, poured his creativity and vision into every aspect of the machine. The cube-like design was not only visually striking but also incredibly functional. It featured a magneto-optical disk drive, high-resolution monochrome display, and a unique optical mouse. It was ahead of its time, setting a new standard for aesthetics and functionality in the world of personal computing.
2. Pioneering Software
While the Next Computer’s hardware was impressive, it was the software that truly set it apart. The Next Computer ran on a Unix-based operating system called NeXTSTEP, which introduced advanced features like true multitasking, object-oriented programming, and a graphical user interface. These innovations laid the foundation for modern operating systems, and parts of NeXTSTEP eventually found their way into macOS and iOS. The development environment for NeXTSTEP, known as Interface Builder, was a precursor to Apple’s Xcode, shaping the way developers create software to this day.
3. Influence on the World Wide Web
One of the most enduring legacies of the Next Computer was its role in the development of the World Wide Web. Tim Berners-Lee, the inventor of the web, used a NeXT Computer to create the world’s first web server and web browser. Without the Next Computer, the web as we know it might not have come into existence. This pioneering work opened the door to the digital age, connecting people and information like never before.
4. The NeXT Legacy
In 1996, Apple acquired NeXT Inc., bringing Steve Jobs back into the company he co-founded. This move marked the return of the visionary leader who would go on to reshape Apple’s future. Jobs’ experience with the Next Computer and its operating system was instrumental in the development of macOS and iOS. It introduced a stable and powerful foundation for Apple’s product lineup, ultimately leading to the creation of the iPhone and iPad, which have revolutionized the way we live and work.
5. Lessons for the Future
The Next Computer’s 35th anniversary serves as a reminder of the importance of innovation and vision in the world of technology. It highlights how a single product, even if not a commercial success in its time, can have a profound and lasting impact on the industry. The Next Computer teaches us that revolutionary ideas, bold designs, and visionary thinking can shape the future of computing, and we should celebrate those who dare to dream differently.
Conclusion
The Next Computer, born out of Steve Jobs’ relentless pursuit of excellence, was a product of its time and yet a harbinger of the future. Its influence on design, software, and the World Wide Web continues to reverberate in the technology we use today. As we celebrate its 35th anniversary, we are reminded of the profound impact it had on the computing world and the lessons it offers for future innovation. The Next Computer is more than a piece of history; it is a testament to the enduring power of visionary thinking in the ever-evolving world of technology.
Photo of Steve Jobs 1993 attributed to Kristy Macdonald – AP
