Apple, one of the world's most valuable public companies by market capitalization, was founded in 1976.
Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne established Apple Computer Company on April 1, 1976. The founders initially focused on selling the Apple I personal computer, which Wozniak designed and built largely by hand.
Apple's later growth came from products including the Macintosh, iPod, iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. The company shortened its name to Apple Inc. in 2007, reflecting its expansion beyond personal computers.
The founding date is sometimes confused with Apple's incorporation date. Apple was incorporated in January 1977, several months after the partnership began. Its market value has since made it a frequent leader among the world's largest listed companies.