The apple logo is recognized all over the world. It has become universal and familiar to almost everyone. “Apple Computer, Inc. holds a significant position in the corporate world due to its paramount products ranging from computers to latest gadgets like iPods, QuickTime, Macintosh etc.” (famouslogos) For me, the introduction to this logo probably came during middle school. All of the computers in our school were Macintosh and I’m sure each and every one of them had an “apple” on them. However, I was not completely aware of what the Macintosh system was or how an apple might relate to it. Nevertheless, the image of a bitten apple definitely had a positive place in my mind. Later, when I grew up and started finding my steps in the computer world, understanding the basics, only then did I completely comprehend the logo, which company it belonged to and why it even exists in the first place.
The apple logo has evolved over time. Initially it was a picture of Isaac Newton under a tree with an apple hanging over him. “ His old logo was used for the Apple I which was a circuit board that “do it yourself” computer geeks would buy to build their own computer.” (Rob Janoff) To me it seems too complicated and not nearly clear enough. The secret of a successful logo is simplicity.
Once Steve Jobs began cooperating with a logo-making company there were significant changes. “ When the Mac first appeared, it had a six-colored rainbow apple with the word "Macintosh" attached.” (essortment.com) The apple computer gained a completely new image. It was clear, simple and friendly. Back then the apple had 7 colored stripes. They represent the development in the IT sphere in those years. The colors symbolize the introduction of color to the standard black and white screen.
However, in the recent years, the logo has undergone one final transformation. The colors no longer symbolize a new advancement in technology. They have been substituted by a smooth silver surface which is modern, elegant and perfectly suits the demand of the modern world.
Even though the picture in front of us is very simple, it can tell us a couple of things about the company. The image of an apple has deep history and many associations in our minds. However, one can see that most of these associations are positive: the apple of wisdom, the saying – “an apple a day keeps the doctor away”, and it is a product that most everyone has in their home. That was the goal of the company which was introducing a home computer. They wanted to show that it is something natural and will make their life easier. For people who were not used to having computers even at work, getting one for their home was a huge step and it was important that the logo of the company looked friendly. The original colors always give it a friendlier look.
The shape and the color are what give the apple logo its power. Even though the colors have changed over time, it just goes to show the universality of this image and how it can be adopted to all time and still be as recognizable as ever. Many logos are usually followed by fonts. Sometime one can see the apple logo with together with the name of the company, but not in most cases. The logo has become so well-known and recognizable that it needs no explanation anymore. It fits perfectly with the company it represents. It emphasized on simplicity and style. These are the two features any the apple computer company has been bringing to the market since the start.
Resources
1. Rob Janoff. Apple logo designer, his early career and legends, lore of the Apple Logo. Retrieved from http://logotalks.com/2010/02/03/apple-logo-designer-his-early-career-and-legends-lore-of-the-apple-logo/
2. Apple Logo (2011). Retrieved from http://www.famouslogos.org/apple-logo
3. Shawn M. Tomlison (2011). Logo Design Elements. Retrieved from http://www.essortment.com/logo-design-elements-24438.html
4. Berger, A. (2008). Seeing is Believing: An Introduction to Visual Communication. (3rd ed.)New York: Mcgraw-Hill Learning Solutions.
