Why is it called Apple?

The name Apple was chosen by Steve Jobs, co-founder of the company, for several reasons, many of which reflected his personal experiences, vision for the company, and practical considerations. Here’s why the company is called Apple:

1. Inspiration from Steve Jobs' Interest in Fruit and Diet

Steve Jobs had a well-known interest in fruitarian diets and had recently returned from working at an apple orchard when he and Steve Wozniak were deciding on a name for their new company. Jobs thought that Apple sounded "fun, spirited, and not intimidating." His personal connection to the fruit played a significant role in the choice.

2. Simplicity and Approachability

Jobs wanted a name that was simple, easy to remember, and approachable. The name "Apple" conveyed these qualities, contrasting sharply with the more technical or complex-sounding names of other tech companies at the time (like IBM or Microsoft). This simplicity matched Apple’s design philosophy of creating technology that was intuitive and accessible to everyone.

3. Position in the Alphabet

Another practical reason for choosing "Apple" was that it would appear early in alphabetical lists, such as phone books or business directories. In the 1970s, businesses were often listed alphabetically in directories, and Jobs thought having a name that started with "A" would give Apple an advantage in visibility.

4. Symbolism of Knowledge and Creativity

The apple has long been associated with knowledge, going back to the biblical story of Adam and Eve and the apple representing knowledge in the Garden of Eden. The name may have resonated with Jobs as a symbol of discovery and knowledge, qualities that he wanted to associate with his company, which aimed to revolutionize technology and empower users.

5. Breaking Away from Corporate and Industrial Norms

Apple’s name represented a departure from the typical, more corporate-sounding names of technology companies in the 1970s, like IBM or Hewlett-Packard. By choosing a simple and friendly name, Apple stood out as an innovative, forward-thinking company that was approachable to both businesses and everyday consumers.

Conclusion

The name "Apple" was chosen because of Steve Jobs’ personal connection to fruit, the name’s simplicity and approachability, and its advantageous placement in alphabetical listings. It also symbolized knowledge and creativity, reflecting Jobs’ vision of creating a company that would revolutionize the way people interact with technology. The name has since become synonymous with innovation, design, and ease of use.