Discover the fascinating evolution of Mac's UI design through the lens of a single app that has been part of the Macintosh since 1984. Designer and author Marcin Wichery has meticulously traced the first 20 years of the Control Panel (now known as Settings), offering a unique glimpse into the early history and development of the Macintosh.
Why This App?
While the Control Panel might seem mundane, Wichery highlights its significance:
"Turns out, the Mac settings have lived a far more fascinating life than I imagined, have been redesigned many times, and can tell us a lot about the early history and the troubled upbringing of this interesting machine."
Interactive Emulators
Wichery provides emulators that allow you to experience different generations of the Mac's UI firsthand. These emulators are not just educational—they're packed with easter eggs that make the exploration even more engaging.
Anecdotes from Apple's History
The article also delves into Apple's rich history, including a memorable moment when Steve Jobs yelled at Andy Hertzfeld during a presentation to Bill Gates. This story, among others, adds depth to the narrative of Mac's design evolution.
Why It Matters
Jeff Carlson from CNET sums it up:
"I never thought I’d be riveted by a history of the Macintosh Control Panel, but an article about its design evolution has brought out the Apple history nerd in me. And I especially didn’t expect to find myself absorbed for hours in the way it’s presented."
Explore the interactive history yourself at Frame of Preference.
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