According to Neowin , when the first Macintosh was released, the mouse - a device that controlled a cursor on the screen - became the popular means of controlling computers. This method of navigation was a real breakthrough at the time, where computers typically had text-based command-line interfaces and input was done using a keyboard.
The first Macintosh was released on January 24, 1984.
In a 1984 press release, Apple stated: "Users tell the Macintosh what to do by moving a "mouse," a small pointing device, to select functions listed in menus and graphical icons on the screen. Users no longer have to remember countless obscure conventional computer shortcuts. The result is radical usability and a dramatic reduction in learning time. At its core, the Macintosh is a desktop computer that offers users more functionality and creativity with simplicity."
Apple added that training to use the Macintosh took only a few hours. The computer featured a desktop with icons, provided drop-down menus, copy and paste functionality, and allowed multiple programs to run in windows.
Commenting at the time, Steve Jobs said: "The Macintosh fits easily on your desk, both in terms of operation and physical design. With the Macintosh, the computer encourages spontaneity and originality rather than creating barriers. It opens up a new perspective on ideas and relationships. The Macintosh not only increases productivity but also encourages creativity."
The original Macintosh started at $2,495, which is more than $7,000 today based on inflation. It had an 8 MHz processor, 128 KB of RAM, a 400 KB floppy drive for data storage, and serial ports for connecting printers and other peripherals.
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