Mac Operating System
In 1984, Apple Computer introduced the Apple Macintosh personal computer. The first version was the Macintosh 128K model which came bundled with the Mac OS operating system then known as the “System Software”.
The Mac is often credited with popularizing the graphical user interface (GUI).
The Mac OS has been pre-installed on almost every Macintosh computer ever sold. The operating system is also sold separately from the computer just as with Microsoft Windows.
The original Mac OS was heavily based on the Lisa OS previously released by Apple for the Lisa computer in 1983. It also used concepts from other operating systems previewed by Apple executives.
In 1984, Apple partnered with Microsoft in an agreement that would have Microsoft creating versions of Word and Excel for the Mac OS.
For the majority of the 1980’s, the Mac OS lacked a large amount of compatible software, however, the introduction of System 7 saw more software becoming available for the platform.
System 6 was the first major revision of the operating system, although the Mac OS kernel was kept the same from the System 7 revision until Mac OS 9.
The Macintosh project started in early 1979 with Jeff Raskin who envisioned an easy-to-use low-cost computer for the average consumer. In September of ’79, Raskin was given permission to start hiring for the project.
When version OS 7.6 was released, the stability of the operating system was much better. People began to fully embrace the Mac OS and their legitimacy returned as a popular operating system.
System 7 also saw the introduction of an interactive help application, and the addition of “Stickies” which were basically virtual Post-It notes. Many Mac users still have OS 7 on their Apples.
Two other versions would follow in OS 8 and OS 9 each improving on the previous version. Apple continued to develop updates to their operating system making it more stable and capable of more tasks working efficiently to bring Mac into the 21st century.
The most recent version and one that is used on new systems today is Mac OS X. This version provides a stable operating environment for the Mac PC and offers more flexibility than other systems.
The graphics are updated with lots of color and a flashier look.
