625: Road to the Apple II: Computer Faire (Part 4)
Summary
Jason Snell and Mike Hurley discuss the Apple II’s debut at the 1977 West Coast Computer Fair, where Apple competed against the Commodore PET and TRS-80. They detail the chaotic preparation, including last-minute case repairs, and how Steve Jobs’ focus on design and professionalism helped secure early investment and orders. The episode highlights the Apple II’s June 1977 launch, its superior features despite a higher price, and its role in establishing Apple as a serious consumer electronics company.
Topics discussed
Last-minute chaos: Apple II cases for the West Coast Computer Fair
The debut: Apple's professional booth and Steve Jobs' influence
The Trinity: Apple II, Commodore PET, and TRS-80 launch
Early success: Arthur Rock investment and initial orders
Series finale: Kickstarter rewards and future plans
Apple II specs: Price, features, and comparison to rivals
Distribution challenges and the appeal of built-in BASIC
Steve Jobs' role: Vision, design, and assembling the team
Legacy: Consumer design philosophy and corporate growth
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