Apple Inc.

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Apple Inc. is a prominent technology[1] company, founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne. Renowned for its innovation and product portfolio, Apple introduced groundbreaking products like the Macintosh, iPhone[2], iPad, and Apple Watch. They also developed key operating systems like iOS[3], iPadOS, and macOS, along with software applications and services such as iTunes, iCloud, Apple Music, and Apple TV+. Apple has had a significant market impact, with its stock price and market value seeing exponential growth over the years. Despite facing challenges like leadership changes and legal battles, Apple has maintained its financial success and continues to influence the technology industry globally. The company also engages in philanthropic efforts and strategic acquisitions to expand and bolster its product portfolio.

Terms definitions
1. technology. Technology, derived from the Greek words meaning craft and knowledge, is a broad term that refers to the tools, machines, and systems developed by humans to solve problems or fulfill objectives. Originating with primitive tools like stone axes and the discovery of fire, technology has evolved significantly throughout human history. It has been instrumental in different eras, from the invention of the wheel and advanced irrigation systems in ancient civilizations to the birth of universities and printing press during the medieval and Renaissance periods. The Industrial Revolution in the 18th century marked a significant shift in mass production and innovation, giving rise to modern technologies like electricity, automobiles, and digital communication platforms. Today, technology is integral to various aspects of life and society, driving economic growth and societal change, while also raising concerns about security, privacy, and environmental impacts. The future of technology is expected to bring even more advancements, with the rise of artificial intelligence predicted to have significant implications for the job market.
2. iPhone ( iPhone ) The iPhone is a notable product of Apple Inc, a renowned technology company. Introduced to the world in 2007 by Steve Jobs, it revolutionized the smartphone industry. Its development journey began in 2004, under the leadership of Tony Fadell, Scott Forstall, and Jony Ive. Known for its sleek design and innovative features, the iPhone series has consistently introduced advancements such as multi-touch technology and Face ID. Over the years, models ranging from the iPhone 3G to the iPhone 14 have showcased improvements in display, cameras, and connectivity. The iPhone runs on the iOS platform, which supports third-party apps and provides regular free updates. Apple's commitment to user privacy and data security is evident in features like App Tracking Transparency and encryption. The company's savvy marketing strategies and emphasis on customer experience have helped position the iPhone as a status symbol.
Apple Inc. (Wikipedia)

Apple Inc. (formerly Apple Computer, Inc.) is an American multinational corporation and technology company headquartered in Cupertino, California, in Silicon Valley. It designs, develops, and sells consumer electronics, computer software, and online services. Devices include the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Vision Pro, and Apple TV; operating systems include iOS, iPadOS, and macOS; and software applications and services include iTunes, iCloud, Apple Music, and Apple TV+.

Apple Inc.
Formerly
  • Apple Computer Company (1976–1977)
  • Apple Computer, Inc.
    (1977–2007)
Company typePublic
ISINUS0378331005
Industry
FoundedApril 1, 1976; 48 years ago (1976-04-01) at Los Altos, California, U.S.
Founders
Headquarters1 Apple Park Way, ,
U.S.
Number of locations
529 retail stores (2024)
Area served
Worldwide
Key people
Products
Services
RevenueDecrease US$383.29 billion (2023)
Decrease US$114.30 billion (2023)
Decrease US$97.00 billion (2023)
Total assetsDecrease US$352.58 billion (2023)
Total equityIncrease US$62.15 billion (2023)
Number of employees
161,000 (2023)
Subsidiaries
ASN
  • 714
Websiteapple.com
Footnotes / references

For most of 2011 to 2024, Apple became the world's largest company by market capitalization until Microsoft assumed the position in January 2024. In 2022, Apple was the largest technology company by revenue, with US$394.3 billion.[failed verification] As of 2023, Apple was the fourth-largest personal computer vendor by unit sales, the largest manufacturing company by revenue, and the largest vendor of mobile phones in the world. It is one of the Big Five American information technology companies, alongside Alphabet (the parent company of Google), Amazon, Meta (the parent company of Facebook), and Microsoft.

Apple was founded as Apple Computer Company on April 1, 1976, to produce and market Steve Wozniak's Apple I personal computer. The company was incorporated by Wozniak and Steve Jobs in 1977. Its second computer, the Apple II, became a best seller as one of the first mass-produced microcomputers. Apple introduced the Lisa in 1983 and the Macintosh in 1984, as some of the first computers to use a graphical user interface and a mouse. By 1985, the company's internal problems included the high cost of its products and power struggles between executives. That year Jobs left Apple to form NeXT, Inc., and Wozniak withdrew to other ventures. The market for personal computers expanded and evolved throughout the 1990s, and Apple lost considerable market share to the lower-priced Wintel duopoly of the Microsoft Windows operating system on Intel-powered PC clones.

In 1997, Apple was weeks away from bankruptcy. To resolve its failed operating system strategy and entice Jobs's return, it bought NeXT. Over the next decade, Jobs guided Apple back to profitability through several tactics including introducing the iMac, iPod, iPhone, and iPad to critical acclaim, launching the "Think different" campaign and other memorable advertising campaigns, opening the Apple Store retail chain, and acquiring numerous companies to broaden its product portfolio. Jobs resigned in 2011 for health reasons, and died two months later. He was succeeded as CEO by Tim Cook.

Apple has received criticism regarding its contractors' labor practices, its environmental practices, and its business ethics, including anti-competitive practices and materials sourcing. Nevertheless, it has a large following and a high level of brand loyalty. It has been consistently ranked as one of the world's most valuable brands.

Apple became the first publicly traded U.S. company to be valued at over $1 trillion in August 2018, then at $2 trillion in August 2020, and at $3 trillion in January 2022. In June 2023, it was valued at just over $3 trillion.

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