On September 12, 1985, Steve Jobs launched NeXT, a technology company that would ultimately influence the future of computing. This venture came shortly after Jobs’ departure from Apple, where he faced a significant internal power struggle leading to his dismissal. With NeXT, Jobs aimed to create innovative computer hardware and software, enlisting a talented team that included several former Apple executives.
NeXT’s flagship product, the NeXT Computer, was launched in 1988 at a price of $6,500, equivalent to about $17,700 today. Despite its high cost, the computer received critical acclaim. Byte magazine praised it in 1989, stating it was “worth every penny,” and acknowledged it at its annual awards.
Innovative Technology and Operating Systems
The NeXT Computer was notable for running on the NeXTSTEP operating system, a Unix-based platform that laid the groundwork for what would later become Mac OS X. The device, often referred to as “The Cube” due to its distinctive shape, featured a 17-inch MegaPixel monitor and was powered by a Motorola 68030 CPU. This model also included a Motorola 68882 Floating-Point Unit (FPU), enhancing its performance for mathematical tasks.
NeXT’s influence extended beyond its hardware. The NeXTSTEP operating system provided essential tools for early web development. Notably, Tim Berners-Lee created the world’s first web server using a NeXT computer while working at CERN. The NeXT Computer also played a role in the gaming industry, with titles like Quake and Doom developed on its platform by the game studio id Software, which invested approximately $100,000 to equip its developers.
In 1990, NeXT expanded its offerings with the launch of the NeXTcube and NeXTstation, further solidifying its place in the computing landscape. Although NeXT’s hardware did not dominate the market, its software innovations had a lasting impact.
Return to Apple and Lasting Legacy
In December 1996, Apple acquired NeXT for $427 million, marking Jobs’ return to the company he co-founded. This acquisition was largely motivated by the advanced NeXTSTEP operating system, which became the foundation for Mac OS X and eventually evolved into the modern macOS.
While NeXT’s devices may not have achieved significant commercial success, their contributions to software development and the early internet cannot be understated. The legacy of NeXT continues to resonate in today’s technology landscape, reflecting Jobs’ vision for innovation and excellence.
In 2025, as the tech community commemorates the 40th anniversary of NeXT’s launch, it is clear that Steve Jobs’ journey, marked by challenges and triumphs, has left an indelible mark on the world of technology.
