description Apple Lisa Overview
The Apple Lisa, released in 1983, was a pioneering but commercially unsuccessful desktop computer notable for its GUI and mouse interface, though it suffered from high cost and slow performance due to its Motorola 68000 processor.
help Apple Lisa FAQ
Why did the Apple Lisa fail commercially?
The Lisa failed due to a combination of its extremely high price tag of $9,995, sluggish performance from its Motorola 68000 processor being overtaxed by the graphical operating system, and the launch of the much cheaper Apple Macintosh in 1984. Apple eventually buried thousands of unsold Lisa units in a Utah landfill as a tax write-off.
Was the Apple Lisa the first computer with a graphical user interface?
No, the Lisa was not the first computer with a GUI—Xerox had developed the Alto in 1973 and the Star in 1981 with graphical interfaces. However, the Lisa was one of the first GUI-based personal computers aimed at a business market, and its interface design heavily influenced the Macintosh that followed.
What processor did the Apple Lisa use?
The Apple Lisa was powered by the Motorola 68000 processor, a 16/32-bit chip that was advanced for its era. While capable, the processor struggled under the demands of the Lisa's sophisticated operating system, which included protected memory features that contributed to the system's sluggish performance.
explore Explore More
Similar to Apple Lisa
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
