Apple’s groundbreaking computer, the Lisa, has found new life through an innovative web-based application known as LisaGUI. Created by developer Andrew Yaros, this in-browser simulation allows users to explore the Lisa Office System, a graphical user interface that, while not the first of its kind, was notably the first to reach mainstream users when it was released in 1983.
Despite its historical significance, the Lisa was never widely adopted, with only around 10,000 units sold. Today, these machines are exceedingly rare. With LisaGUI, enthusiasts can experience this pivotal piece of computing history without needing to locate an original device. The application is built using Javascript, making it accessible through standard web browsers.
Unique Features of LisaGUI
Unlike modern operating systems, Lisa’s graphical user interface offers a document-centric approach. For instance, when users double-click on the icon for LisaType, they do not immediately launch the program. Instead, they “tear off” a document from the LisaType icon, which can be opened later. This design reflects a unique philosophy of interaction that diverges from contemporary user experiences.
The desktop environment in LisaGUI is also distinct. Rather than serving as a permanent storage area, it acts as a temporary workspace. Users can place files on the desktop, but this action does not change their location on the disk. This design choice encapsulates the original Lisa’s functionality while still allowing for modern usability enhancements.
Yaros has introduced several quality-of-life improvements in LisaGUI. For example, menu functionality has been updated to allow menus to remain open until a selection is made, contrasting with the original design that required users to hold the mouse button down. Additional features, such as a menu bar clock and the option to customize icon themes and color palettes, further enhance the user experience.
While the current version of LisaGUI includes limited original software, such as LisaType, users expressed interest in seeing more applications like the LisaProject, which was instrumental in NASA’s decision to purchase the computer. As of now, this version is in its early alpha stage, and it remains to be seen whether additional software will be developed without infringing on Apple’s intellectual property.
Engaging the Retro Computing Community
LisaGUI has garnered attention from retro computing enthusiasts, who appreciate the chance to engage with this historic system in a modern format. The project provides a nostalgic experience for those familiar with the Lisa while being accessible to new users curious about its legacy.
The application was highlighted in a recent video by Action Retro, where the host showcased his own Lisa II, a slightly more common successor to the original Lisa. As the retro computing community continues to grow, projects like LisaGUI represent the intersection of nostalgia and modern technology, allowing users to experience computing history in an interactive way.
As Andrew Yaros continues to develop LisaGUI, it is clear that this project not only pays homage to a significant era in computing but also fosters appreciation for the innovative spirit that characterized early personal computing. For those interested in exploring the unique features of the Lisa, LisaGUI offers an engaging and informative platform.
