NeXT Inc.
NeXT Inc., also known as NeXT Computer, Inc. and NeXT Software, Inc., was a pivotal American technology company that played a crucial role in the evolution of computing. Founded by Steve Jobs in 1985 after his departure from Apple Inc., NeXT was headquartered in Redwood City, California. The company was renowned for developing the NeXT Computer, a line of advanced computer workstations.
Foundation and Development
The story of NeXT begins with Steve Jobs, who envisioned creating a new computing platform to serve the needs of higher education and business markets. The NeXT Computer was unveiled in 1988 and was notable for its innovative hardware and NeXTSTEP operating system. NeXTSTEP was distinguished by its object-oriented software development environment, which later formed the foundation for Apple's macOS.
Technological Innovations
NeXT's contributions to computer technology are immense. The NeXT Computer was among the first to integrate Ethernet networking and featured a high-performance Motorola 68030 processor. The magneto-optical drive was another hallmark of its design, although it was eventually replaced by a hard disk drive due to performance constraints.
One of NeXT's most significant legacies is its software. The World Wide Web was invented by Tim Berners-Lee on a NeXT computer. NeXTSTEP's influence can be seen in modern operating systems, being the precursor to Apple's OS X and iOS platforms.
Acquisition by Apple
In 1996, Apple Inc. acquired NeXT for $429 million, a strategic move that led to the return of Steve Jobs to Apple. This acquisition brought the NeXTSTEP operating system into Apple's lineup, ultimately transforming it into Mac OS X. This merger was a turning point for Apple, credited with revitalizing the company's product line and leading to its modern-day success.
Impact on Industry
NeXT's innovation extended beyond hardware and software; it pioneered concepts like object-oriented programming and user interface design that have become standard in the computer industry. Through strategic partnerships, such as the one with IBM, NeXT influenced many aspects of business computing and software development.
NeXT's impact is also seen in educational sectors, where its technology provided powerful tools for research and academia. Despite its eventual absorption into Apple, NeXT's legacy continues to influence modern computing technologies and business practices.