Steve Wozniak
Co-founder of Apple Inc. & Engineering Visionary
Why They Changed Society
Without Steve Wozniak, the personal computer revolution might have taken a very different path. The Apple II, which he designed almost entirely by himself, was the first mass-produced microcomputer and became the platform that launched the software industry. His elegant hardware designs — using far fewer chips than competitors thought possible — proved that computers could be affordable, reliable, and user-friendly. Wozniak's open approach to sharing technical knowledge inspired generations of engineers and helped establish Silicon Valley's culture of innovation. He demonstrated that one brilliant engineer can change the world.
Impact by the Numbers
6 million
Apple II Units Sold
50+
Chips Saved per Design
Timeline
Began attending meetings and was inspired to design his own computer.
Designed and hand-built the Apple I, one of the first single-board personal computers.
Created the Apple II, the first mass-produced personal computer with color graphics and an open architecture.
Apple went public, becoming one of the largest IPOs in history, validating the personal computer market.
Received the National Medal of Technology from President Reagan for contributions to personal computing.
Key Contributions
Apple I (1976)
One of the first single-board personal computers, proving a complete computer could fit on one circuit board.
Apple II (1977)
The first mass-market personal computer with color graphics, sound, and an open expansion architecture.
Disk II Floppy Drive (1978)
Designed a floppy disk controller using far fewer components than any competitor, making storage affordable.
Universal Remote (CL 9, 1987)
Created the first programmable universal remote control, pioneering consumer electronics convergence.
Notable Quotes
“My goal wasn't to make a ton of money. It was to build good computers.
“Never trust a computer you can't throw out a window.
“Wherever smart people work, doors are unlocked.