The Apple II was the first of three microcomputers (along with TRS-80 and Commodore PET 2001) released in 1977 which are credited with launching the home computer industry. Steve Wozniak's clever, cost-saving circuitry design made the system attainable for the home consumer. Steve Jobs' vision for a futuristic, molded-plastic case made the system approachable and allowed Apple to market the system as a home-appliance, rather than a business-machine or a hobbyist-kit. Together, these factors made the Apple II one of the first computers to be successfully marketed to consumers.

The third iteration in the series, the Apple //e, was launched in 1983 and remains Apple’s longest-lived computer, having sold for nearly 11 years.

The //e was quite successful in the education market. For many of us, it was the first computer we used — playing Oregon Trail in the school computer lab.