After leaving Apple in 1985, Steve Jobs embarked on a new venture, NeXT Computer, aiming to outshine his former company and refine his skills as a visionary leader.
The Genesis of NeXT
NeXT, based in Redwood City, California, was Steve Jobs’ response to his departure from Apple. In 1988, NeXT released its first computer, followed by the NeXTstation in 1990. Despite innovative designs, sales were modest, with only about 50,000 units sold.
NeXTstep: A Pioneering OS
NeXTstep, the operating system for NeXT computers, was highly influential. It laid the groundwork for future Apple Macintosh systems when Jobs returned to Apple. In 1993, NeXT shifted its focus from hardware to software, concentrating on the development of OpenStep.
OpenStep: Collaborative Development
OpenStep, developed with Sun Microsystems, was a significant step in object-oriented operating systems. While NeXTstep included both the operating system and upper-level libraries, OpenStep focused solely on these libraries, offering platform independence and new features for broader compatibility.
The First NeXT Computer
The original NeXT computer, revealed in 1988, showcased a unique cubic design, a signature of Steve Jobs’ attention to aesthetics. Priced at $6,500, it featured a Motorola 68030 processor, 8MB to 64MB of RAM, an optical drive, and hard drive options, outperforming many contemporary desktop computers.
NeXTstation: The Final Hardware
The NeXTstation, released as part of the second generation of NeXT computers, represented the last hardware effort of the company before its shift to software. Despite upgrades like the replacement of optical drives with floppy and CD drives, and improved memory and processors, it was discontinued in 1993.
Legacy of NeXT
NeXT Computer’s journey from 1985 to 1996 reflects Steve Jobs’ relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence. Though the hardware line was short-lived, its software legacy, particularly NeXTstep and OpenStep, had a profound impact on the future of computing, including Apple’s later operating systems.
