In 1998, personal computers were ugly beige boxes with no style or design. Apple saw an opportunity to reinvent the computer with bold all-in-one designs and outlandish colors.
At first, opinions were divided with such drastic changes to core macintosh technology but soon critics began to love the iMac describing it as the "Gold Standard of desktop computing", "industry-altering success" and the "Must-have desktop".
At iMac History, we're striving to be the number one destination for information on all iMac models.
You can read more on the entire range of iMac products (sorted by product series, or the year of release) by visiting the links on the left. Feel free to add your thoughts and experience to each iMac model.
🎨 iMac G3 Era (1998-2003): The Design Revolution
- 1998: Original Bondi Blue iMac G3 debuts with translucent design, eliminating legacy ports
- Innovation: All-in-one design, USB-only connectivity, built-in CRT display
- Impact: Saved Apple from bankruptcy and redefined consumer desktop computers
- Famous colors: Tangerine, Lime, Strawberry, Blueberry, Grape
- Explore the complete iMac G3 timeline
💿 iMac G4 & G5 Era (2002-2006): Flat Panel Innovation
- 2002: iMac G4 "lampshade" design with adjustable LCD display
- 2004: iMac G5 introduces sleek flat-panel all-in-one design
- Innovation: First LCD iMac, built-in iSight camera, Front Row media interface
- Design legacy: Established modern iMac aesthetic that continues today
âš¡ Intel iMac Era (2006-2020): Professional Power
- 2006: Transition to Intel Core processors dramatically increases performance
- 2009: Unibody aluminum design debuts
- 2014: Retina 5K display introduced on 27-inch models
- 2017: iMac 5k launched for pro workflows
- Innovation: Thunderbolt connectivity, stunning Retina displays, pro-level specifications
🚀 Apple Silicon Era (2021-Present): M-Series Revolution
- 2021: 24-inch iMac with M1 chip in vibrant new colors
- 2023: M3 chip brings enhanced performance and graphics
- Innovation: Apple-designed processors, ultra-thin design, MagSafe charging, 4.5K Retina display
- Performance: Up to 2x faster than Intel models with better energy efficiency
- Available colors: Blue, Green, Pink, Silver, Yellow, Orange, Purple
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Featured iMac - Late 2013
