# Macintosh 128K Home Computer

> personal computer in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art, New York

**Wikidata**: [Q109796898](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q109796898)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/macintosh-128k-home-computer

## Summary
The Macintosh 128K Home Computer is the first Macintosh computer by Apple, released on January 24, 1984. It is now part of the permanent collection at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, where it is cataloged as inventory number 396.1994.a-c.

## Key Facts
- Released on January 24, 1984, as the first Macintosh computer by Apple
- Creator: Apple Inc., Steve Jobs, and Jerry Manock
- Located in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art, New York
- Inventory number: 396.1994.a-c (Museum of Modern Art)
- Instance of: Macintosh 128K
- Manufacturer: Apple Inc.
- Museum of Modern Art work ID: 3742
- Featured on WikiProject Applied arts/Industrial design focus list

## FAQs
### Q: What is the Macintosh 128K Home Computer?
A: The Macintosh 128K is the first Macintosh computer released by Apple on January 24, 1984. It was a groundbreaking personal computer that introduced the graphical user interface to mainstream consumers.

### Q: Where is the Macintosh 128K Home Computer located now?
A: The Macintosh 128K is part of the permanent collection at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, where it is cataloged as inventory number 396.1994.a-c.

### Q: Who created the Macintosh 128K?
A: The Macintosh 128K was created by Apple Inc., with key contributions from Steve Jobs and industrial designer Jerry Manock.

## Why It Matters
The Macintosh 128K Home Computer represents a pivotal moment in personal computing history. As the first Macintosh, it introduced the graphical user interface and mouse-driven interaction to mainstream consumers, fundamentally changing how people interact with computers. Its design philosophy emphasized user-friendliness and accessibility, making computing more approachable for non-technical users. The Macintosh 128K's influence extended beyond its technical specifications, helping to establish Apple's reputation for innovative design and user-centered technology. Its inclusion in the Museum of Modern Art's collection underscores its significance as both a technological and cultural artifact, recognizing its impact on design, computing, and popular culture.

## Notable For
- First Macintosh computer, introducing graphical user interface to mainstream market
- Revolutionary design that made personal computing accessible to non-technical users
- Recognized as an important design object by inclusion in Museum of Modern Art collection
- Featured on WikiProject Applied arts/Industrial design focus list
- Created by Apple Inc. under Steve Jobs' leadership, establishing Apple's design philosophy

## Body
### Historical Context
The Macintosh 128K was released on January 24, 1984, during the personal computer revolution. It came at a time when most computers used text-based interfaces and required command-line knowledge. Apple positioned the Macintosh as a more accessible alternative to existing personal computers.

### Technical Specifications
While specific technical details aren't provided in the source material, the Macintosh 128K was notable for its 128KB of RAM (hence the name) and its all-in-one design with built-in monitor. It featured a 9-inch black-and-white display and came with a keyboard and mouse.

### Design and Innovation
The Macintosh 128K represented a significant departure from existing personal computers. Its graphical user interface, featuring windows, icons, and a desktop metaphor, was revolutionary for its time. The computer's design, led by Jerry Manock, emphasized simplicity and approachability.

### Cultural Impact
The Macintosh 128K's introduction was accompanied by Apple's famous "1984" Super Bowl commercial, directed by Ridley Scott. This marketing campaign positioned the Macintosh as a revolutionary product that would challenge the status quo in computing.

### Museum Recognition
The inclusion of the Macintosh 128K in the Museum of Modern Art's collection (inventory number 396.1994.a-c) and its designation as Museum of Modern Art work ID 3742 highlights its significance as a design object. This recognition places the Macintosh 128K alongside other important examples of industrial design and technology.